How Have Telangana Women Saved Rs 6,680 Crore Through the Free Bus Travel Scheme?
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Synopsis
The Telangana government has made significant strides in empowering women through its free bus travel scheme, resulting in substantial savings and increased bus occupancy. This initiative not only fosters financial independence but also enhances accessibility to education, employment, and healthcare for women across the state.
Key Takeaways
- Rs 6,680 crore saved by women through free bus travel.
- Over 200 crore free tickets issued under the Mahalakshmi scheme.
- Occupancy rates in RTC buses increased from 67% to 97%.
- Daily ridership rose from 45 lakh to 65 lakh.
- Government aims to empower one crore women as ‘crorepatis’.
Hyderabad, July 23 (NationPress) Women in Telangana have successfully saved Rs 6,680 crore thanks to the free travel initiative on RTC buses, as noted by Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.
On Wednesday, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGRTC) reached a significant milestone by distributing 200 crore free tickets for women under the Mahalakshmi scheme, which was launched in December 2023.
During an event at the Mahatma Gandhi Bus Station in Hyderabad to commemorate this achievement, the Deputy Chief Minister stated that this initiative has contributed to profits for the TGRTC.
Vikramarka, who also holds the finance portfolio, mentioned that the state government consistently allocates funds to TSRTC for the Mahalakshmi scheme reimbursements.
The Deputy CM emphasized that the Congress party has delivered on its promise to enhance the RTC, recalling how it was once deemed a 'sinking ship'. He noted that the introduction of the free travel scheme has turned it profitable.
He highlighted that the scheme has boosted the occupancy rate in RTC buses from 67 percent to 97 percent.
The Mahalakshmi scheme, which was an electoral promise of the Congress party, was officially launched on December 9, 2023, coinciding with the party's ascension to power.
On a directive from Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, celebratory events and special programs took place at 97 RTC depots and 341 bus stations statewide on Wednesday.
He observed that daily ridership on RTC buses has surged since the scheme's inception, increasing from 45 lakh to 65 lakh passengers.
The Deputy CM also announced that the RTC has acquired 2,400 new buses since the Congress government took office.
In a move towards sustainability, the RTC is replacing diesel buses in Hyderabad with electric alternatives. So far, orders for 3,000 electric buses have been placed, with plans to add another 500.
Additionally, the government has initiated road construction and repairs worth Rs 20,000 crore.
The minister reiterated the government’s ambition to transform one crore women into ‘crorepatis’.
Not only does the government provide free bus travel for women, but it also offers interest-free loans to women’s self-help groups for bus procurement, further empowering them financially.
The Deputy Chief Minister announced that every year, the government will extend interest-free loans of Rs 20,000 to women’s groups. In the first year alone, loans exceeding Rs 21,650 crore have been disbursed.
Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar criticized the previous government for neglecting the RTC. He affirmed the current government’s commitment to safeguarding RTC interests, ensuring passenger safety, and promoting employee welfare.
Prabhakar claimed that the free bus travel initiative is unlocking opportunities for women from rural and remote regions to engage in employment, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship within urban areas.
Point of View
I recognize the significant impact of the Telangana government's initiatives on women's empowerment. The free bus travel scheme is a prime example of how public policies can enhance accessibility and promote gender equality. By ensuring that women have the means to travel for work and education, the government is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive society. This approach must be observed as a model for other regions aiming to empower women and enhance their socio-economic status.
NationPress
23/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mahalakshmi scheme?
The Mahalakshmi scheme is a free bus travel initiative for women in Telangana, launched in December 2023.
How much money have women saved through this scheme?
Women in Telangana have saved Rs 6,680 crore through the free bus travel scheme.
How many new buses has the RTC purchased since the scheme started?
The RTC has purchased 2,400 new buses since the formation of the Congress government.
What are the future plans for electric buses in Hyderabad?
The RTC plans to replace diesel buses with electric buses, having already placed orders for 3,000 electric buses and intends to purchase an additional 500.
How does the government support women's self-help groups?
The government provides interest-free loans to women's self-help groups for bus procurement, which financially empowers them.
