As free bus travel for women rolls out on Aug. 15, A.P. govt. mulls aid for auto drivers
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday directed the officials to conduct a comprehensive study, stressing that livelihood security for key transport sector workers must be a priority alongside new welfare initiatives.
The announcement was made during a review meeting at the Secretariat, where Mr. Naidu assessed the final preparations for the Stree Shakti scheme. The Chief Minister, who will formally launch the initiative at Pandit Nehru Bus Station in Vijayawada, emphasised that crowd management, polite conduct, and women's safety must remain top priorities.
Efficient management
With passenger numbers expected to surge after the scheme launch, Mr. Naidu said that traffic flow must be managed efficiently, bus capacity scaled up, and passengers treated with courtesy. He insisted there should be no inconvenience to commuters and that regular feedback be collected to fine-tune the scheme. The Chief Minister also instructed that some services be provided through a service outsourcing agency to ensure flexibility and efficiency.
Facilities
He ordered that ePOS machines be equipped with GPS and linked to the State's RTGS system, enabling real-time tracking and faster resolution of issues. Bus stations, he said, must be kept clean and toilets cleaned every two hours under supervision. RO water plants should be installed in all stations, and ongoing repair and painting works, costing ₹30 crore, must be completed by December. New fans and seating should be installed where required, and RTC staff must remain on hand round the clock to assist passengers.
To prevent breakdowns, officials confirmed that maintenance checks have been strengthened as additional services will be deployed.
Women will be able to travel free of cost in Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, City Ordinary, Express, and Metro Express buses. Software upgrades to enable zero-fare ticket issuance will be completed by August 14, with staff already trained for the rollout.
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