Thiruvananthapuram, June 9 (APAC Media): The Kerala government is set to roll out its much awaited free bus travel scheme for women and transgender persons from June 15.
The initiative will cover ordinary services operated by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
Transport Minister C.P. John announced the rollout after a meeting with Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan and senior officials.
A major promise made, a major promise delivered.
From June 15, women across Keralam will be able to travel free on #KSRTC services under the UDF’s #IndiraGuarantee. A decision that will ease household expenses, strengthen mobility, and empower millions of women. The benefit will… pic.twitter.com/Co39ipEX9u— V D Satheesan (@vdsatheesan) June 8, 2026
The scheme was one of the Congress-led UDF government’s five ‘Indira Guarantees’. It is also one of the first major transport welfare initiatives of this scale in Kerala.
“The free travel scheme for women has been finalised, and we are making preparations for it now. This is good for economics but difficult to finance”, Transport Minister CP John.
All Women Covered, No Income Limit
All women, irrespective of their financial background or employment status, will be eligible for the scheme. In addition, transgender persons have also been included to ensure broader social inclusion.
The government is expected to announce the final guidelines after the Cabinet meeting scheduled for June 10.
Cost Estimated Up to ₹1,300 Crore
According to the Transport Department, the scheme will cost around ₹712 crore annually if limited to ordinary KSRTC buses.
However, the financial burden could rise to nearly ₹1,300 crore if the benefit is extended to all categories of buses. At present, the government is not considering such an expansion.
Importantly, Minister John said that the government is not planning to extend it beyond ordinary services.
The minister clarified that KSRTC will not bear the financial burden. The state government will provide support through a financial package.
100 Day Review Planned
The government plans to monitor the scheme closely during the first 100 days of implementation. During this period, officials will track passenger numbers, cost impact, and public response.
Based on the review, changes may be made to improve the system.
Challenge Over City Fast Services
A final decision is pending on whether “City Fast” buses will be included. These services are important in cities like Thiruvananthapuram, where ordinary buses are limited on several routes.
Although KSRTC has around 2,800 ordinary buses, only about 1,600 are currently operational. Ordinary services are limited in several areas, making the issue crucial for commuters.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has directed officials to complete all formalities quickly to ensure the scheme is launched smoothly on June 15.
With the rollout, Kerala will join a growing list of states that offer free public transport to women, while also extending the benefit to transgender persons.
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