In a significant step toward women empowerment, the Andhra Pradesh government’s much-anticipated free RTC bus travel scheme for women will be rolled out from August 15. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to issue “Zero Fare Tickets” to women under this scheme.
During a review meeting held at the Secretariat on Monday, the Chief Minister instructed that the zero fare ticket must include detailed information such as travel data, the amount saved by the passenger due to the free ride, and a clear mention that the government is providing a 100% subsidy. He said this transparency would help women commuters understand the direct benefits they are receiving.
Naidu also emphasized the need to develop the necessary software infrastructure to implement this ticketing system effectively.
Discussion on Scheme Viability and RTC Reforms
The Chief Minister held discussions with officials about the financial implications of the scheme and how similar initiatives are being implemented in other states. He stressed that the scheme must be launched efficiently and without delay from Independence Day.
Focus on Making RTC Profitable
With the introduction of the free travel scheme, Naidu also turned attention to easing the financial burden on APSRTC and improving its profitability. He instructed officials to explore new revenue streams and reduce operational costs. A roadmap to transform RTC into a profit-making entity must be prepared, he said.
Priority for AC Electric Buses
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister directed that only AC electric buses should be procured henceforth. He also proposed converting existing buses into electric ones to reduce maintenance expenses. Naidu recommended the establishment of in-house power generation facilities to support this transition and called for a detailed study on setting up EV charging stations at all RTC depots. These measures, he noted, would lead RTC toward self-sustainability.
