Free Bus Scheme: Telangana Government Likely to Extend Free Bus Travel to Men, Eligibility and Timeline Explained
Hyderabad | January 8, 2026 | DeccanLive.com
The Telugu states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh are already offering free bus travel for women. In Telangana, this scheme is being implemented under the name Mahalakshmi, while in Andhra Pradesh it is called Stree Shakti.
Under this scheme, women only need to show their Aadhaar card while boarding the bus. After verification, conductors issue a zero ticket, which allows women to travel free of cost in RTC buses anywhere within the state.
Very soon, the governments are planning to issue a special QR code card for women. Once this card is introduced, women will no longer need to show their Aadhaar card. This will make free bus travel even easier and faster.
Free Bus Travel for Disabled Persons
At present, disabled persons in both Telugu states are given discounted tickets on RTC buses. They usually pay only half the fare, and special seats are also reserved for them.
Now, both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh governments are preparing to provide free bus travel for disabled persons as well, especially disabled men.
Recently, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced that disabled persons will be included in the free bus travel scheme, just like women. He said that disabled citizens will soon be allowed to travel free of cost in RTC buses.
Currently, APSRTC is collecting data on:
- The total number of disabled persons in the state
- The estimated cost of implementing the scheme
After reviewing this data, the Andhra Pradesh government is expected to make an official announcement.
Telangana Also Plans Free Bus Travel for Disabled
In Telangana too, the government is considering free RTC bus travel for disabled persons. Minister Adluri Laxman recently said that steps are being taken to introduce this facility.
He mentioned that discussions have already been held with Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, and talks with Chief Minister Revanth Reddy will take place soon. The minister expressed confidence that a positive decision will be made in the coming days.
Once this scheme is implemented, women and disabled men will be able to travel free of cost in RTC buses across both states.
