Telangana's Free Bus Travel Scheme Drives RTC Occupancy to 98%
Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar informed the legislative council on Wednesday that the free travel scheme for women has significantly boosted occupancy in Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (RTC) buses, increasing from 69% to an impressive 98%. This announcement highlights the transformative impact of the initiative on public transportation and women's mobility.
Surge in Women Ridership and Economic Benefits
Replying to questions in the council, Prabhakar revealed that women passengers now constitute a much larger share of RTC users, with daily ridership touching nearly 60 lakh. He emphasized that the scheme has enabled women to travel longer distances for employment, thereby enhancing their earning opportunities and contributing to economic empowerment.
Under the Maha Lakshmi scheme, 279 crore bus trips were made by women free of cost between December 9, 2023, and February 28, 2026. The Congress government has allocated substantial funds to support this initiative, releasing ₹3,866 crore to RTC during the 2024–25 fiscal year and ₹2,913 crore up to February 26 in the 2025–26 fiscal year.
Government's Response to Criticism and Welfare Measures
The minister criticized opposition parties and others for attempting to portray the free travel scheme negatively on social media, such as by showing women fighting for seats. He stated that such narratives undermine the dignity of women and called for constructive discussions instead.
Prabhakar also assured auto drivers that the Congress government is developing a welfare scheme for them, which will be implemented soon. Additionally, he outlined several measures to support RTC employees and improve operations:
- RTC's credit cooperative society (CCS) dues were reduced from ₹664 crore to ₹300 crore.
- Provident fund (PF) dues were reduced from ₹1,350 crore to ₹600 crore.
- 2,708 new buses have been purchased, and 3,038 posts are being filled.
- The government has provided 1,132 compassionate appointments and implemented a 21% fitment related to 2017.
- RTC employees have been extended a ₹1 crore accident insurance cover.
Promoting Women's Economic Empowerment
In a move to further empower women, the government is promoting economic opportunities by allotting 600 buses to women's groups. This initiative aims to enhance women's participation in the transportation sector and foster financial independence.
The free travel scheme has not only increased bus occupancy but also facilitated greater access to employment and education for women across Telangana. As the government continues to invest in public transport and welfare programs, the positive outcomes are expected to grow, benefiting both the economy and society at large.
