'Shakti' Scheme: Free Ride In Govt Buses Costs Rs 8.84 Crore On Single Day

The free ride in non-luxury state-run buses for women across Karnataka under the 'Shakti' scheme on Monday cost the state exchequer Rs 8.84 crore, according to the transport department.

On day one of the launch of the scheme on Sunday, the department incurred an expenditure of Rs 1.40 crore. In just two days, the total expenditure under the scheme -- a key pre-election promise of the Congress -- was Rs 10.24 crore.

According to data shared by the department, on Monday Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation incurred an expenditure of Rs 3.58 crore, Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation, which operates city buses, Rs 1.75 crore, the North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation Rs 2.11 crore and the Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation Rs 1.40 crore.

If one were to take into consideration the Monday figure, the annual expenditure on this scheme may touch between Rs 3,200 crore to Rs 3,400 crore, a transport officer told PTI.

The 'Shakti' scheme is an initiative by the Karnataka government that offers free travel to women and transgender individuals in state buses.

The scheme aims to promote social equality and benefit minorities, women, and marginalized sections of society. It is expected to increase women's participation in the workforce, as women in India have historically faced exploitation and limited opportunities. Women need to show a valid ID proof and address proof, such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, or any other government-issued photo ID with an address.