In a significant announcement highlighting the success of welfare initiatives in Andhra Pradesh, Transport Minister Mandipalli Ram Prasad Reddy revealed that the Stree Shakti scheme has benefited a staggering 40 crore women passengers since its inception. The scheme, which offers free bus travel for women, was launched by the TDP-led NDA coalition government on August 15, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the state's public transport policy.
Stree Shakti Scheme: A Resounding Success Despite Late Start
Addressing a review meeting at the APSRTC headquarters in Vijayawada on Wednesday, Minister Ram Prasad Reddy emphasized that despite Andhra Pradesh implementing the free bus travel scheme later than neighboring states, Stree Shakti has emerged as one of the most successful welfare programs in the last 18 years. This achievement underscores the scheme's widespread acceptance and its crucial role in enhancing mobility and empowerment for women across the state.
Major Reforms and Employee Welfare in APSRTC
The transport minister detailed several positive transformations within APSRTC following the formation of the coalition government. Key initiatives include:
- Promotions granted to employees, boosting morale and career growth.
- Alternative employment provided to 51 medically unfit employees, ensuring job security.
- Financial assistance extended to 149 out of 200 medically unfit employees who attended screening, out of a total of 682 such cases.
These measures reflect a commitment to employee welfare and organizational stability, with Ram Prasad Reddy expressing confidence that APSRTC is now firmly back on track.
Future Plans: Electric Buses and Enhanced Services
Looking ahead, the minister announced ambitious plans to modernize the state's public transport fleet. A total of 750 swanky electric buses will soon be inducted into APSRTC, aligning with global trends towards sustainable mobility. Furthermore, the RTC will exclusively procure electric buses moving forward, and air-conditioning facilities will be introduced in Palle Velugu services in a phased manner, improving comfort for passengers in rural areas.
Financial Boost: Cargo Services Generate Rs 200 Crore
During the review meeting, RTC officials, including MD Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, reported that APSRTC generated an impressive Rs 200 crore in non-ticketing revenue over the last 12 months through cargo services. This financial milestone highlights the diversification of revenue streams and the operational efficiency of the corporation.
Inauguration of Modernized Cargo Facilities
To further bolster cargo operations, Transport Minister Mandipalli Ram Prasad Reddy and RTC MD Ch Dwaraka Tirumala Rao inaugurated the Modernised Cargo Delivery Point and Cargo Office at Vijayawada Bus Station. This development is expected to enhance logistics capabilities and support economic activities in the region.
The review meeting in Vijayawada underscored the holistic progress in Andhra Pradesh's transport sector, from empowering women through the Stree Shakti scheme to driving innovation and financial growth in APSRTC.
