Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s plan to launch free bus travel for women by Sankranti has hit a roadblock, with APSRTC officials requesting more time to finalize the scheme. The officials cited the need to study similar models in other states and address operational challenges, including a shortage of buses and staff.
The scheme, a key TDP election promise, was initially planned for Dasara, but officials now estimate that 500 new buses are needed for smooth implementation. APSRTC Executive Director GV Ravi Varma stated that the corporation can launch the service in two weeks if the government approves funds for new buses.
With the scheme now tentatively pushed to Ugadi (March 30), the delay has frustrated people especially as Telangana launched a similar initiative within a month. Naidu is keen to make the scheme a reality, but officials are warning of potential disruptions without adequate preparation.
