Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu had announced that the ‘Free Bus for Women’ Scheme will begin in Andhra Pradesh from August 15th.
This scheme is estimated to cost the government Rs. 3,182 crore annually. The government will have to reimburse that amount to the RTC.
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The passenger occupancy ratio (OR) in buses is currently 69 percent, but it is expected to reach 94 percent after this scheme is rolled out.
It is also estimated that the number of women passengers will increase by another 10.84 lakh every day.
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There are divided opinions about this scheme.
As always, a big section of the people are criticizing this scheme as it is another freebie at the cost of taxpayers’ money.
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In the states where this scheme is being implemented, it has become increasingly difficult for men to get a seat in the RTC Buses.
The Business of Autos and Cabs will be severely affected. The livelihood of many will be impacted.
Traditionally, Governments have always neglected RTC. So, the payment reimbursement will not be prompt, and that would further kill the Corporation.
However, there is also a positive side to this scheme.
The initiative promotes women’s participation in public life and encourages a more equitable society. It relieves the financial burden on women and their families, particularly those with lower incomes.
The money thus saved will come in handy for their household management and add to their savings.
The women who use buses to commute to their workplace and education will benefit big time.
In the lower strata of society, the Free Bus and Free Mid-day meal can encourage female education.
The challenge for this scheme is to avoid joyrides, which will be a misuse of the scheme.
A few days ago, during the assembly sessions, Minister Sandhya Rani responded to a question asked by a member of the council and stated that free travel for women would be implemented only within the district limits.
The Clarification on this is yet to be provided.
If that is implemented, the losses to RTC can be contained to a great extent.
