On August 15, 2025, the Andhra Pradesh coalition government officially launched the Maha Shakti scheme, a landmark initiative that allows women to travel free of cost on APSRTC buses across the state. The policy aims to ease financial burdens on families, particularly working women and elderly women who rely on public transport daily.
According to several passengers interviewed, the scheme could save women nearly ₹1500 per month on travel expenses, making a significant difference in their household budgets. Many praised the government for prioritizing women’s mobility and financial independence.
However, the scheme has also raised concerns. Auto-rickshaw and cab drivers worry that free bus travel may affect their livelihoods. Observers draw parallels to Telangana, where a similar initiative sparked protests from the auto and cab community. Some members of the public, though, believe the Andhra Pradesh government may step in with compensatory measures, such as providing a fixed monthly allowance to drivers affected by the scheme.
Financial experts have also questioned the long-term sustainability of Maha Shakti. With APSRTC no longer collecting fares from women passengers, there are doubts about how the corporation will manage its revenue. Critics caution that this could eventually lead to increased taxes or strain on government finances, potentially impacting its popularity in the long run.
Despite these concerns, the scheme has been widely welcomed by women commuters across Andhra Pradesh. As the state embarks on this ambitious welfare program, all eyes will be on how the government balances public welfare with financial viability in the coming months.
