🚌 Telangana’s Mahalakshmi Scheme Crosses 280 Crore Free Bus Trips for Women

Hyderabad, March 20, 2026:
Telangana’s flagship Mahalakshmi free bus travel scheme has achieved a major milestone, with women completing over 280 crore free journeys across the state since its launch.

Massive Adoption Across Telangana

Launched in December 2023, the scheme allows women to travel free on state-run buses operated by Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC).

Since its rollout, the initiative has seen huge participation, with nearly 280 crore trips recorded by February 2026, reflecting its widespread impact.

Daily ridership has also surged, with around 60 lakh women using the service every day, making it one of the most successful public transport schemes in India.

Big Savings for Women Travelers

The scheme has not only improved mobility but also helped women save significantly on travel expenses.

Reports suggest that women across Telangana have collectively saved thousands of crores in travel costs, improving their financial independence and daily affordability.

Boost to Public Transport Usage

The free travel initiative has led to a sharp increase in bus usage:

• RTC bus occupancy rose from around 69% to nearly 98%
• Passenger demand increased significantly across routes
• More women are now traveling for work, education, and daily needs

This surge has also strengthened the financial and operational stability of TGSRTC.

Empowering Women Through Mobility

The scheme is playing a key role in:

• Expanding job opportunities for women
• Improving access to education and healthcare
• Supporting rural and urban connectivity

Officials say the initiative has enabled women to travel longer distances without worrying about cost, directly contributing to economic empowerment.

What This Means for Travelers

For passengers in Telangana:

• Easier and cost-free travel for women
• Better bus availability due to higher demand
• Improved connectivity across cities and villages

FlipMyTravel Insight

The Mahalakshmi scheme highlights how free public transport can transform mobility and affordability, especially for women travelers. It also sets an example for other states aiming to improve inclusive transport systems.