Kerala has announced free bus travel for women on KSRTC buses starting June 15, a move that has sparked widespread debate. While the scheme aims to empower women socially and economically, questions have been raised about the financial burden on the already struggling state transport corporation.

The free travel scheme, part of the UDF’s election promises, is not new to India. Several states including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Delhi, and Telangana have implemented similar programs with varying degrees of success. Tamil Nadu’s ‘Vidiyal Payanam’ scheme, launched in 2021, saw women passengers increase from 40% to 70%, with an annual cost of ₹1,200-1,600 crore. Karnataka’s ‘Shakti’ scheme, started in May 2023, benefits around 75 lakh women daily at an annual cost of ₹4,000-5,000 crore. Delhi’s ‘Pink Ticket’ scheme, the first in the country, is now being digitized with a smart card system.

However, Kerala faces unique challenges. The KSRTC is already in financial distress, with pending salaries and pensions. The state government estimates an additional daily burden of ₹3 crore, which could rise to ₹90 crore per month if all women passengers avail the facility. To manage costs, the government may restrict free travel to ordinary, fast, and city services, excluding super-class and AC buses. Private bus operators are also concerned, as they fear losing their majority women passengers, which could lead to further decline in their already shrinking business.

Despite the challenges, the scheme has the potential to significantly impact women’s lives. Reports from Telangana show women saving up to ₹2,500 per month on travel expenses. Free travel can also increase women’s access to distant job opportunities and enhance their mobility and safety. The key for Kerala will be to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the scheme, possibly through dedicated budget allocations, increased subsidies, and efficient implementation.