Thiruvananthapuram: More than 1.3 million women availed themselves of the newly launched Priyadarshini free travel scheme on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) ordinary buses on its first day of implementation.
According to official figures, the number of women passengers travelling on Monday increased by 595,245 compared to the previous Monday. A total of 7,83,115 women passengers travelled using zero-value tickets under the scheme.
KSRTC estimates that the free travel facility resulted in a revenue loss of ₹1,59,56,801 on the first day alone. Officials also noted a significant decline in the number of male passengers, which further impacted overall revenue collections.
The Priyadarshini scheme is expected to provide substantial financial relief to women, particularly daily wage workers and those from economically weaker sections. Depending on their travel frequency and distance, beneficiaries are estimated to save between ₹600 and ₹3,000 per month through free travel on KSRTC ordinary services.
Although travel is free under the scheme, passengers are required to obtain a zero-value ticket while boarding the bus. KSRTC has urged all eligible passengers to collect their tickets to ensure proper passenger accounting and smooth implementation of the programme.
The government expects the initiative to improve mobility, enhance access to employment and essential services, and reduce transportation expenses for women across the state.
