Tue Oct 14 20:33:37 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, following the requested format:
**Andhra Pradesh’s Free Bus Scheme for Women & Transgender People Faces Sustainability Hurdles Despite Early Success**
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – October 15, 2025** – Andhra Pradesh’s ambitious Stree Shakti scheme, offering free bus travel to women and transgender individuals, is showing promising initial results, but faces significant operational and financial challenges that threaten its long-term viability.
Launched on August 15th, 2025, the scheme aimed to empower women by providing free transportation across the state. Within months, ridership has surged, with daily usage by women skyrocketing from 12 lakh passengers in the first 30 hours to 28.3 lakh by October 6th. The initiative has been met with positive public sentiment and has demonstrably increased mobility for women across the state.
However, the rapid growth in ridership has exposed several critical issues. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) reports a daily subsidy increase from ₹7.76 crore to ₹10.86 crore, with the number of dedicated Stree Shakti buses increasing from 85 to 121. The estimated annual cost of the program is ₹1,942 crore. This places a considerable financial burden on the state, raising concerns about long-term funding, particularly if economic conditions weaken.
Overcrowding is another pressing problem. The existing APSRTC fleet struggles to meet demand, leading to longer waiting times, especially during peak hours. This is compounded by a reported decline in fare-paying passengers. While the government awaits the arrival of 700 electric buses, the current situation requires immediate attention.
“The scheme is undeniably a boon for women in Andhra Pradesh, but its success hinges on addressing these emerging challenges,” says transport analyst K. Lakshmi. “We need to ensure the financial model is sustainable and that the transport infrastructure can handle the increased demand without compromising service quality.”
Furthermore, the scheme has drawn protests from auto-rickshaw and maxi cab drivers, who claim significant revenue losses due to the increased bus ridership. The government has responded with the Auto Mitra program, offering drivers ₹15,000 annually, but drivers are demanding increased compensation.
Meanwhile, the APSRTC Employees’ Union is urging the corporation to procure at least 2,500 new buses and hire 9,000 employees to avoid outsourcing to private bus operators. The union voiced their concern regarding the government’s plan to operate electric vehicles under the Gross Cost Contract Model, which they fear is the first step towards privatization.
The Stree Shakti scheme is at a critical juncture. While its initial impact is undeniable, the Andhra Pradesh government must address the financial, logistical, and social challenges to ensure its continued success and avoid unintended consequences. The future of this transformative initiative depends on strategic planning and proactive solutions.
First Piper 