The Mahalakshmi Free Bus Ride Scheme, introduced by the Congress government in Telangana, has provided significant financial relief to women and transgender persons across the state. Since its launch on December 9, 2024, the scheme has saved passengers approximately ₹1,177 crore in just four months (up to April 7), according to official data.
Mahalakshmi Free Bus Scheme Saves Telangana Women
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Launch Date | December 9, 2024 |
| Total Savings | ₹1,177 crore (in 4 months) |
| Daily Women Passengers (Initial) | 14 lakh |
| Current Daily Women Passengers | 29.67 lakh |
| Monthly Women Passenger Averages | December: 26.99 lakh January: 28.10 lakh February: 30.56 lakh March: 31.42 lakh |
| Eligible Groups | Women, girls, and transgender persons domiciled in Telangana |
| Applicable Bus Services | City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Express buses |
| Hyderabad Daily Women Passengers | Approximately 6 lakh |
Impact and Benefits
Financial Relief
- The scheme has collectively saved Telangana’s women and transgender passengers a remarkable ₹1,177 crore in just four months.
- Previously, many women spent up to ₹1,500 per month on bus passes and fares. The scheme has effectively reduced this burden to zero.
Increased Bus Patronage
- At the scheme’s launch, nearly 14 lakh women availed themselves of free bus rides daily.
- This number has now risen to an average of 29.67 lakh daily.
Rising Monthly Trends
- The number of female passengers has shown consistent growth:
- December 2024: 26.99 lakh daily
- January 2025: 28.10 lakh daily
- February 2025: 30.56 lakh daily
- March 2025: 31.42 lakh daily
Urban Impact
- In Hyderabad, an estimated 6 lakh women benefit from the scheme each day.
Who Can Avail the Scheme?
The Mahalakshmi scheme is open to:
- Women of all ages
- Girls
- Transgender persons
All beneficiaries must be domiciled in Telangana.
Applicable Bus Services
Eligible passengers can travel for free on the following TSRTC services:
- City Ordinary
- Metro Express
- Palle Velugu (rural bus service)
- Express buses
Broader Social Impact
- The scheme has enhanced mobility for women in both urban and rural areas, improving access to education, employment, and healthcare.
- It has reduced financial strain on families by cutting travel costs.
FAQs
What is the Mahalakshmi scheme?
The Mahalakshmi scheme offers free bus travel for women, girls, and transgender persons domiciled in Telangana on select TSRTC bus services.
Who can benefit from the scheme?
All women, girls, and transgender persons residing in Telangana are eligible.
Which TSRTC buses are covered under the scheme?
The scheme applies to City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, and Express buses.
How much money have passengers saved so far?
Passengers have collectively saved approximately ₹1,177 crore in the first four months since the scheme’s launch.
How has the scheme impacted public transport usage?
The number of female passengers increased from an initial 14 lakh daily to a current average of 29.67 lakh daily. This growth highlights improved accessibility and enhanced social mobility for women across Telangana.
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