Andhra govt launches free bus travel for persons with disabilities; 12 lakh to benefit from scheme
The Divyang Shakti scheme will provide free bus travel in APSRTC services, including City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu and Express buses.
By Newsmeter Network
Amaravati: Aiming for an inclusive and equitable society, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has launched the ‘Divyang Shakti’ scheme. This puts AP in a select group of Indian states providing free bus travel to people with disabilities.
Building on the launch of the free bus travel initiative for women, the government has now extended the benefit to persons with disabilities as well.
Divyang Shakti Scheme to benefit 12.76 lakh people
The Divyang Shakti scheme will provide free bus travel in APSRTC services, including City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu and Express buses.
It applies to individuals with more than 40 per cent disability across 21 categories and is expected to benefit around 12.76 lakh people, including attendants. By improving access to transportation, the scheme will significantly enhance opportunities for education, healthcare, employment and social participation, the government said in a statement.
The government said it has committed an annual expenditure of Rs 207 crore for the effective implementation of the scheme.
CM Naidu takes a special bus journey
Marking the launch, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, along with Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh, undertook a special bus journey with beneficiaries from Mangalagiri to Penumaka, drawing an enthusiastic public response along the route.
During the journey, the Chief Minister and other leaders interacted closely with people with disabilities, listening to their experiences, understanding their challenges, and seeking feedback on government welfare initiatives.
The interaction provided firsthand insights into mobility issues faced by beneficiaries, reinforcing the need for accessible public transport. The leaders reiterated their commitment to removing barriers and ensuring dignity, independence, and equal opportunities for all.
Following the journey, the Chief Minister hosted a special lunch for beneficiaries, joined by Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan and Minister Nara Lokesh, marking the launch of the scheme in a spirit of inclusion and solidarity.
