87 crore free bus rides for women in Andhra in one year

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on August 15 travelled in an APSRTC bus with women beneficiaries to mark the first anniversary of the Stree Shakti free bus travel scheme. Officials said 87 crore journeys had been completed in the year, with an average of 24 lakh women travelling daily. The government spends Rs 8.53 crore a day, totalling Rs 3,095 crore so far.

The scheme, launched on August 15, 2025, provides free travel on five categories of APSRTC buses for women, girls and transgender persons domiciled in the state. It covers 7,631 of the corporation's 9,978 buses. Women's share of bus travel has risen from 40% to 62%, and road accidents have reportedly declined, the CMO said.

Beneficiaries told Naidu the scheme had cut expenses and opened up opportunities. A fisherwoman said she saved Rs 4,000 a month, while a handloom worker said she could now travel to buy materials and sell saris. Naidu said the scheme promoted women's empowerment, financial independence and dignity.