Free Bus Travel Announced for Disabled in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh Govt. Launches ‘Divyang Shakti’ Free Bus Scheme: The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a new scheme called “Divyang Shakti” to provide free bus travel for persons with disabilities.
The scheme was launched on March 18, 2026, by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He described it as an important step towards building an inclusive and equal society. The benefit comes after the success of the free bus travel scheme for women in the state.
The launch event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Minister Nara Lokesh. After the launch, the Chief Minister travelled in a bus with beneficiaries from Mangalagiri to Penumaka, receiving a warm response from the public.
During the journey, the leaders spoke with persons with disabilities to understand their problems and challenges in daily travel. They assured continued efforts to improve accessibility and provide equal opportunities.
The Chief Minister said the government has introduced several welfare schemes in the past 21 months and expressed special satisfaction with this initiative. He also highlighted support provided under the Cheyutha programme, which offers tricycles and two-wheelers to persons with disabilities.
He added that the government provides a pension of ₹6,000 to persons with disabilities, increased from ₹500 earlier.
Under the “Divyang Shakti” scheme, free travel will be available in buses run by Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation, including City Ordinary, Metro Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, and Express services.
The scheme will cover 21 categories of disabilities with more than 40% disability. It is expected to benefit about 12.76 lakh people, including attendants. The government has allocated around ₹207 crore per year for its implementation.
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