Sat Oct 11 07:20:44 UTC 2025: ## Summary:
The Tamil Nadu government has expanded its “Vidiyal Payanam” zero-cost bus travel program to include persons with disabilities (40% or above benchmark disabilities) living in hilly areas, along with their escorts. This initiative, effective from 2025-26, will benefit approximately 1,100 individuals and their escorts on state-run buses in ghat routes up to specified distances. The government has allocated ₹88.65 lakh as a subsidy to State Transport Undertakings (STUs) for this expansion, fulfilling an announcement made by the Chief Minister during his Independence Day speech.
## News Article:
**Tamil Nadu Extends Free Bus Travel to Persons with Disabilities in Hilly Areas**
**CHENNAI, October 11, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu government has announced an expansion of its “Vidiyal Payanam” (Dawn Journey) program, providing free bus travel to persons with disabilities and their escorts in hilly regions of the state. The initiative, which takes effect from the 2025-26 fiscal year, aims to improve accessibility and mobility for individuals with disabilities, specifically those who have 40% or more benchmark disability.
The program will enable approximately 1,100 beneficiaries, each accompanied by an escort, to travel free of charge on state-run “white board” buses (those charging ordinary fares) within a radius of 35 kilometers in fully and partially served areas and 40 kilometers in unserved areas along ghat routes.
The expansion, officially ordered on Tuesday (September 16, 2025), aligns with the Chief Minister’s Independence Day address, during which he pledged to enhance support for vulnerable populations.
The Welfare of Differently Abled Persons Department has sanctioned ₹88.65 lakh as a subsidy to the State Transport Undertakings (STUs) to cover the costs associated with the program. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal access to public transportation.
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