Mahalakshmi scheme: TSRTC sees 40 percent spike in footfall, to procure 2,500 buses

HYDERABAD: The ‘Mahalakshmi’ scheme launched by the Congress Government to provide free bus travel to women across the state has had a significant impact on the TSRTC with an increase of 13 lakh passengers. It has been observed that 90 percent of these passengers are women.

While the income from ticket sales for the TSRTC buses might decrease due to free travel for women, the Government will have to reimburse the lost revenue to the corporation.

Earlier, the corporation used to earn around Rs.13-14 crore on regular days, but now the daily earnings have risen to Rs.18.25 crore. The number of daily passengers has also risen from 25–30 lakh to over 43 lakh with an increase of 40 percent.

Although the number of passengers has increased, the exact count of women travelers is yet to be determined. The process of issuing zero tickets started three days ago, and once completed, it will provide clarity on the number of women passengers and the corresponding reimbursement amount.

Based on the issuance of zero tickets, it has been determined that 43,12,033 people traveled in TSRTC buses across the state on 16 December 2023 resulting in an income of Rs.1,826.49 crore (including the reimbursed amount from the government).

Due to the significant increase in women passengers, buses are becoming overcrowded, with three-fourths of the seats occupied by women in many cases. To address this issue, it has been calculated that at least 2,500 new buses need to be procured. Currently, despite the 40 percent increase in passengers, the same buses have been used since the start of the scheme.

However, approximately 4,000 buses in TSRTC are very old, posing a risk of overcrowding. The corporation aims to acquire new buses to prevent accidents and ensure passenger safety. While some previously ordered buses are expected to be ready soon, it has been decided to seek permission from the government and develop plans to purchase additional new buses.