- From 14 Lakh to 30 Lakh daily riders 

- Women’s Mobility Redefined

metro india news  I hyderabad

The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) has achieved a significant milestone under the ambitious Mahalakshmi Scheme, a flagship initiative of the Congress government that provides free bus travel for women. As of July 22, the scheme has issued an impressive 199.60 crore zero-fare tickets, with the number expected to touch 200 crore by July 23 (Wednesday), marking a new chapter in public welfare and women’s empowerment.

Launched within just 48 hours of the Congress-led government assuming office under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, the scheme was formally inaugurated on December 9, 2023, in front of the Telangana State Legislative Assembly. Since then, the Mahalakshmi Scheme has garnered nationwide attention for its scale and execution.

Over the past 18 months, this transformative initiative has enabled women across the state to save a massive Rs. 6,671 crore in travel expenses. Initially, around 14 lakh women availed the scheme daily. Today, the number has more than doubled, with over 30 lakh women utilising TSRTC buses every day to travel free of cost.

In Hyderabad alone, nearly 8 lakh women commuters use city buses daily under the Mahalakshmi Scheme. The rising numbers reflect growing public trust in the initiative and its effectiveness in easing travel and enhancing economic mobility for women.

The Mahalakshmi Scheme, the government says, is a testament to its commitment to women’s welfare, inclusion, and empowerment. It stands as a shining example of how public transport can be leveraged to bring meaningful change to everyday lives, especially for women from underprivileged and working-class backgrounds.

CM hails Mahalakshmi milestone

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expressed his delight on social media platform X as the Mahalakshmi Scheme crossed the 200 crore zero-ticket milestone. He congratulated all women beneficiaries and extended special appreciation to the RTC workers, staff, and management for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the scheme’s continued success over the past 18 months of public governance.

Celebratory events marking the special occasion

To mark the milestone of 200 crore free journeys under the Mahalakshmi Scheme, celebratory events will be held across 97 bus depots and 341 bus stations in Telangana, informed Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar. Banners will be displayed, and meetings will be organised at major bus stations and depots. Local MPs, Ministers, MLAs, Mayors, and VIPs will be invited to participate, he added.

Speeches from women beneficiaries—including vegetable vendors, employees, teachers, students, traders, hospital-goers, and pilgrims—will highlight their experiences. Selected women passengers will be honoured with shawls and gifts.

Competitions such as essay writing, rangoli, and painting will be conducted for school and college students on themes including women's empowerment and the Mahalakshmi Scheme. Prizes, including books, water bottles, and pen sets, will be awarded to the top five students.

Additionally, the five best drivers, the five best conductors, and other support staff, including traffic guides and security personnel from each depot, who contributed to the scheme’s success, will be felicitated for their outstanding service.