Free bus travel for women in Kerala: The women in Kerala can now travel free on state-run buses, with the launch of ‘Priyadarshini’ scheme today. It was one of the key promises made by the Congress-led UDF government in its election manifesto. With this launch, Kerala joined other southern states, including Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister VD Satheesan said that the scheme will bring significant changes to the lives of ordinary women. “It will benefit women and transgender persons from various sections of society, including fisherwomen, domestic workers, students, employees, and those travelling to hospitals, government offices, and banks,” he said.
The CM also noted that, with the implementation of the scheme, the amount previously spent on monthly travel expenses will now become additional savings for households.
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Kerala has introduced free bus travel for women (Express Photo)
Kerala launches free bus travel scheme for women: Who is eligible
In the first phase, the scheme will provide free travel to women of all age groups and transgender persons on all 3,125 ordinary KSRTC buses, irrespective of income level or social background. The beneficiaries will not be required to register, submit applications or furnish any documents to avail the service.
The women passengers will only need to obtain a zero-fare ‘Priyadarshini’ ticket from the conductor through an Electronic Ticket Machine (ETM). The tickets will enable digital recording of journeys and help facilitate reimbursement to KSRTC. The state government will provide around Rs 800 crore annually to KSRTC for implementing the scheme.
Kerala has introduced free bus travel for women (Express Photo)
Free bus travel for women begins in Kerala: Check benefits
As thousands of women depend on KSRTC buses every day for work, education, healthcare, office-related travel, and other essential purposes, the scheme is expected to strengthen their financial security by reducing travel costs and increasing their monthly savings.
Kerala has introduced free bus travel for women (Express Photo) 
Kerala has introduced free bus travel for women (Express Photo)
Kerala has introduced free bus travel for women (Express Photo)
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