Free bus for AP women from today

Women in Andhra Pradesh can avail free bus services from the evening of August 15. Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu will launch the “Stree Shakti” scheme in Mangalagiri at 3.30 pm on Friday. The scheme aims to reduce the travel expenses of women and reduce the financial burden on poor families. The programme will provide free travel to women across the state, as well as improve education and employment opportunities.

With the implementation of this scheme, the coalition government will fulfill another of its “Super Six” promises. With this, it will join the list of states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka, where similar benefits are already available.

The state government has made extensive arrangements for the smooth implementation of the scheme. Clear guidelines have been issued on which buses will be eligible for free travel. These include Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, City Ordinary, Metro Express and Express buses. Some types of buses are not part of the scheme.

APSRTC depots have improved their infrastructure keeping in mind the increase in passenger numbers. Officials expect significant congestion in the first three months, with many women in particular likely to take advantage of this new free travel facility.