Andhra Launches Free Bus Travel for Women Under Stree Shakti!

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched the transformative ‘Stree Shakti’ scheme on Friday, granting free bus travel to girls, women, and transgender persons with state domicile. The initiative, part of the TDP-led NDA’s ‘Super Six’ election promises, was unveiled at Pandit Nehru Bus Station in Vijayawada, with NDA leaders, including Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, BJP chief PVN Madhav, and IT Minister Nara Lokesh, in attendance.

The scheme covers travel on Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, City Ordinary, Express, and Metro Express buses operated by the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC). Approximately 2.62 crore women are expected to benefit, with 74% of APSRTC’s 11,449 buses allocated for the initiative. During a ceremonial bus ride from Undavalli to Vijayawada, Naidu and other leaders interacted with beneficiaries, issuing zero-fare tickets and discussing their travel needs and livelihoods. The journey, crossing the Krishna River, saw enthusiastic support from TDP cadres and locals in Tadepalli village.

Naidu emphasized the government’s commitment to women’s financial independence, announcing plans to appoint women as bus drivers and transition to electric buses with real-time tracking. The ‘Stree Shakti’ scheme, alongside other ‘Super Six’ promises like monthly aid for women, job creation, and farmer support, underscores the NDA’s focus on inclusive development. The initiative is set to enhance mobility and empower women across Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant step toward gender equity and sustainable transport.

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