Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu To Launch ‘Stree Shakti’ Free Bus Scheme

On August 15, Andhra Pradesh will take a significant step towards women's empowerment as Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu launches 'Stree Shakti', a free bus travel service for women across the state. The official launch will take place at Pandit Nehru Bus Station in Vijayawada on Friday afternoon, coinciding with the 78th Independence Day celebrations.

According to an official press release, the scheme will provide free bus rides to girls, women, and transgender persons who hold Andhra Pradesh domicile status. Beneficiaries will be able to travel across the state on five categories of Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) services - Pallevelugu, Ultra Pallevelugu, City Ordinary, Metro Express, and Express.

During a review meeting ahead of the launch, officials informed the CM that upgrades to the electronic point of sale (ePOS) ticketing machines are underway to facilitate the issuance of zero-fare tickets. The software update is expected to be completed by August 14 to ensure a smooth start.

Naidu emphasised that the success of Stree Shakti would depend on proper implementation and directed officials to collect feedback from passengers during the initial phase. He also instructed the completion of ongoing bus station repairs, costing ₹30 crore, by December to improve commuter facilities.

In addition to the bus travel scheme, the Chief Minister has asked the transport department to conduct a comprehensive study for a new welfare initiative for auto-rickshaw drivers, integrating existing central government schemes.

The Stree Shakti programme is expected to benefit millions of women and strengthen their access to education, employment, and social opportunities - making public transport a more inclusive space for all.