Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation is going to launch APSRTC Free Bus Scheme for women from 15 August 2024. It is a part of the Super Six Scheme in which women would be facilitated for free travel in Palle Vellugu and Express buses across the state. Free Bus Scheme by APSRTC is set to revolutionize public transport for girls, women, and transgender persons. Read this article till the end to know APSRTC Free Bus Scheme scope, provisions, monitoring / implementation and other details.
About APSRTC Free Bus Scheme 2024
APSRTC Free Bus Scheme offering free travel within the state-run Palle Velugu and Express buses will come into effect from 15th August 2024. Both category of buses are currently operated by the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation. This progressive move aims to enhance mobility and safety for a significant section of the population.
It would reduce social isolation by allowing more women to participate in community activities and access public spaces. APSRTC free bus scheme would reduce transportation costs for women, leaving more disposable income for other needs and potentially boosting local economies. In addition to this, free bus travel can create employment opportunities within the public transportation sector and related industries.
APSRTC Free Bus Travel Scheme Objectives
APSRTC Free Bus Scheme 2024 aims to offer free bus travel to financially vulnerable women in the state. This scheme is specifically designed to empower women by ensuring they do not have to rely on others for their transportation needs, thereby fostering independence. The Free Bus Travel Scheme in AP will also benefit women who does not have access to private vehicles, thereby enhancing their ability to reach jobs, education, healthcare, and other essential services.Major Beneficiaries of AP Free Bus Scheme
APSRTC Free Bus Scheme as a part of the Super Six Scheme is designed to benefit girls, women of all ages and transgender persons who are residents of Andhra Pradesh. By providing free transportation, the scheme empowers these groups, making travel more accessible and affordable. The primary beneficiaries of free bus travel scheme in Andhra Pradesh are:- Girls and Women of All Age Groups: From school-going children to elderly women, this scheme ensures that all females, regardless of their age, can travel freely within the state.
- Transgender Persons: Recognizing the challenges faced by transgender individuals, the scheme extends the same benefits to them, promoting inclusivity and equality.
Scope of Andhra Pradesh Free Bus Travel Scheme
The AP free bus travel scheme, as a part of Super 6 schemes, allows eligible individuals to travel for free within the borders of Andhra Pradesh in the following bus services:-- Palle Velugu Buses: These buses are the backbone of rural connectivity, ensuring that even the remotest villages are accessible.
- Express Buses: For faster and more efficient travel between major towns and cities, Express buses are an ideal option.
Intra State Travel Provisions in APSRTC Free Bus Scheme
The AP free bus scheme includes provisions for intra-state travel i.e within the borders of the Andhra Pradesh state. While free travel is limited only upto the borders of AP state, passengers can travel up to the state's borders in both Express and Palle Velugu buses without any fare. This ensures seamless connectivity for those traveling to neighboring states.Financial Reimbursement For Free Travel in APSRTC Buses
Under AP free bus travel scheme, the state govt. of Andhra Pradesh will reimburse APSRTC for the fare costs that would otherwise be collected from the eligible passengers. This reimbursement will be based on the actual distance traveled, ensuring that APSRTC's operations remain financially viable even while serving the public interest.AP Free Bus Scheme Impact on Society
This scheme is expected to elevate the social status and living standards of women across Andhra Pradesh. By removing transportation costs, it helps women save money and enhances their mobility. To ensure the effective execution of the scheme, the Andhra Pradesh government has sanctioned a budget of Rs. 18.2 crore. Eligible women will receive free travel bus passes, facilitating easy and cost-free movement across the state.Eligibility Criteria for APSRTC Free Bus Travel Scheme
- Applicant be a permanent resident of the Andhra Pradesh state.
- Only women and transgender people are eligible; men are excluded.
- Women belonging to any caste category i.e general, OBC, SC, ST, others are eligible.
- Applicants must possess all necessary documents required for the APSRTC free bus scheme application process.
List of Required Documents for APSRTC Free Bus Scheme Application
- Aadhaar Card as Identity Proof
- PAN Card / Any Other Documents as Address Proof
- Birth Certificate / Class 10th Marksheet as Date of Birth Proof
- Bank Passbook (First Page Copy)
- Active Mobile Number
- Email ID
- Recent Passport Size Photographs
APSRTC Free Bus Scheme 2024 Apply Online Process
- First of all, visit the official website at https://www.apsrtc.ap.gov.in/
- At the homepage, click at "Online Application" link.
- Then APSRTC Free Bus Scheme online application form will open.
- Enter all asked details accurately and upload all the required documents.
- Finally, click at "Submit" button to complete the APSRTC online registration process.
After the approval from the concerned authorities, eligible women who had applied online will get APSRTC free bus travel smart card. Under this scheme, one can avail benefit of free transportation facilities provided by the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.
Implementation / Monitoring of Andhra Pradesh Free Bus Scheme
The Vice Chairman and Managing Director (VC & MD) of APSRTC are tasked with the implementation of AP Free Bus Scheme. AP State Road Transport Corporation's VC & MD is responsible for issuing detailed instructions and guidelines to ensure the scheme runs smoothly from August 15, 2024.APSRTC Smart Card for Free Bus Travel Scheme in AP State
Key steps in the implementation process of APSRTC Free Bus Scheme includes:
- Development of the Super Six Smart Card: APSRTC will develop a software-based smart card system for the Super Six Scheme. This card will facilitate easy identification and verification of eligible passengers, streamlining the travel process.
- Operational Guidelines: Detailed instructions will be issued to APSRTC staff and bus operators soon. It would ensure that the free bus scheme benefits are effectively delivered to target groups.
Overview of AP Free Bus Travel Scheme for Women
| Scheme Name | APSRTC Free Bus Scheme |
| State | Andhra Pradesh |
| Objective | To provide free bus travel facility to all women across entire AP state |
| Major Beneficiaries | Women & Transgender People |
| Implementation Dept | Transport Department |
| Launched by | State Transport Minister |
| Launch Year | 2024 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Website | apsrtc.ap.gov.in |
Conclusion
The launch of the APSRTC Free Bus Scheme marks a significant step towards gender equality and social inclusion. By providing free travel to girls, women, and transgender persons, the scheme not only eases financial burdens but also enhances safety and accessibility in public transportation. This forward-thinking initiative reflects the AP government's commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all its residents.
After its official launch, APSRTC Free Bus Scheme Guidelines would get updated at https://www.apsrtc.ap.gov.in/coverage.php
Tags
Andhra Pradesh