Free bus travel for all women within the state, without any conditions: Transport Minister

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, May 30, 2023: A meeting was held at the KSRTC Central Office, chaired by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, to discuss free transportation for women. "We will provide free travel opportunities to all women in the state, without the requirement of a BPL card as previously stated. Hence, all women can travel for free on buses without any conditions. Aadhaar cards are mandatory while traveling." he said.

 

 

Later, Mr Reddy informed reporters, "I have had discussions with the Chief Minister and the secretaries. All corporations have provided guidelines, which will be reviewed and finalized by the  department. Tomorrow, there will be a meeting with the CM and the cabinet."

 

"There is a shortage of employees in the four corporations. Recruitment needs to be done, and the number of buses is also insufficient, which needs to be increased. Otherwise, it will be difficult to implement the Congress Power Scheme, as mentioned by Ramalinga Reddy during the meeting with officials.

Regarding the provision of free bus service for women, an estimated amount of 3,200 crore rupees is required annually. If the government provides financial assistance to the four corporations, which are currently facing losses, it will be beneficial for the scheme. Officials have stated that if the government does not provide funds, the corporations will be burdened with more debt.

The financial situation is challenging due to the COVID-19 situation. Recruitment of employees was delayed due to the pandemic. There are obstacles in the operation of new buses everywhere. All the information has been collected, and the new buses will be allocated to all corporations. Approximately 8.251 million people travel on buses, and 240 million journeys are made per month, as stated by Reddy.