Thu Aug 21 00:28:21 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Andhra Pradesh Transport Minister M. Ramprasad Reddy announced plans to significantly upgrade the APSRTC bus fleet with 2,500 electric buses over the next four years, starting with an initial 750. He also addressed issues regarding the “Stree Shakti” free travel scheme for women, emphasizing its importance and confirming its application on most ghat roads. The scheme, which has already seen 6.5 million women take advantage, costing the government ₹25 crore, is being further developed with the planned introduction of smart cards. He also addressed issues regarding the shortage of conductors and the conversion of Palle Velugu (Rural) buses into AC services.

**News Article:**

**APSRTC to Add 2,500 Electric Buses, Streamline Free Travel Scheme for Women**

**VIJAYAWADA, August 21, 2025** – The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) is set to undergo a significant transformation with the addition of 2,500 electric buses over the next four years, announced Transport Minister M. Ramprasad Reddy at a press conference Wednesday. The first 750 electric buses will be integrated into the fleet soon.

Minister Reddy also addressed the successful implementation of the “Stree Shakti” scheme, which provides free bus travel for women. He clarified that the scheme now applies to all ghat roads except Tirumala and emphasized the government’s commitment to the initiative. “Stree Shakti is a responsibility, not a burden,” he stated.

Since its launch six days ago, the scheme has been utilized by approximately 6.5 million women, costing the government ₹25 crore, which has already been reimbursed to the APSRTC. To improve efficiency and provide unique identification for beneficiaries, the government plans to issue smart cards to women.

Responding to reports of a conductor shortage, Minister Reddy assured the public that steps are being taken to resolve the issue swiftly. He also addressed earlier criticisms regarding restrictions on ghat road routes, stating that these issues have been resolved.

The Minister also stated that there was a proposal to convert Palle Velugu (Rural) buses into AC services in the next two years.

APSRTC Chairman K. Narayana and Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Ch. Dwaraka Tirumala Rao were present at the press conference. Minister Reddy expressed satisfaction with the scheme’s progress and instructed officials to improve facilities at bus stations for women passengers.

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