Amaravati, February 26, 2026: Andhra Pradesh Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy announced that women's ridership on public buses has climbed sharply to 65% under the Stree Shakti free travel initiative.
Previously at 40%, the figure reflects greater mobility for women across the state. An average of 25 lakh women now use the service each day, and the scheme has enabled 47 crore free journeys so far, backed by a government subsidy of ₹1,660 crore.
Launched on August 15, 2025, as part of the state's women empowerment push, the program covers free rides for women in key APSRTC categories including city ordinary, express, Palle Velugu, and Ultra Palle Velugu buses.
