Kerala has launched the Priyadarshini Free Travel Scheme, enabling women and transgender persons to travel free of cost on selected KSRTC services across the state.
The scheme was inaugurated by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, who emphasized that free public transport for women is not an act of generosity but a step toward social and economic empowerment. He said the initiative is expected to create a positive impact on mobility, employment, and financial inclusion.
The first service under the scheme commenced from Thampanoor, with Sheela serving as the driver and Jayakumari issuing the first zero-fare ticket. Senior leaders and ministers were among the inaugural passengers.
In the first phase, the scheme will be implemented on 3,125 KSRTC ordinary buses. Eligible passengers will receive a zero-fare ticket, which will help authorities monitor ridership and determine subsidy payments to KSRTC.
Free travel will be available on Ordinary, City Ordinary, Limited Stop Ordinary, Town-to-Town, Fair Stage Ordinary, Point-to-Point Ordinary, and Gramavandi services.
Women availing the benefit must collect a zero-fare ticket from the conductor by mentioning their destination, similar to the normal ticketing process. The buses covered under the scheme can be identified through a special “Priyadarshini Free Travel” sticker displayed on the vehicle.
The initiative marks one of the most significant public transport welfare measures introduced in Kerala, aimed at improving mobility and accessibility for women and transgender communities.
