Thiruvananthapuram, October 25, 2026: The Kerala government led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has reportedly allocated ₹298.63 crore so far for the Priyadarshini Free Bus Travel Scheme, an initiative providing free travel to women and transgender persons on Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) ordinary buses.
The latest allocation of ₹88.23 crore, sanctioned on October 24, covers the cost of free journeys undertaken during September 2026.
Launched on June 15, 2026, the scheme has recorded a significant increase in passenger journeys, highlighting the growing use of free public transport among women across Kerala.
Over 4.16 Crore Free Bus Journeys in September
According to the figures provided, the Priyadarshini scheme recorded 3,72,13,381 free passenger journeys in August 2026.
The number increased to 4,16,41,303 in September.
This represents an increase of 44,27,922 journeys, or approximately 11.9%, within a single month.
On average, around 13.88 lakh free journeys were recorded daily during September.
The increase indicates growing utilisation of the scheme, which aims to make public transport more accessible and affordable.
Women travelling to workplaces, educational institutions, hospitals, government offices and other destinations are among those expected to benefit from the initiative.
Government Releases ₹88.23 Crore for September
The Kerala government sanctioned ₹88.23 crore to KSRTC on October 24 to compensate for the revenue foregone through free bus travel during September.
With this allocation, the government’s reported cumulative financial commitment to the scheme has reached ₹298.63 crore.
Under the scheme, KSRTC provides free travel to eligible passengers while the state government compensates the corporation for the corresponding revenue shortfall.
The arrangement is designed to protect KSRTC’s finances while extending free public transport to eligible groups.
CM V.D. Satheesan Launched the Scheme on June 15
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan inaugurated the Priyadarshini Free Bus Travel Scheme at the Thampanoor Central Bus Station in Thiruvananthapuram on June 15, 2026.
The initiative was introduced to improve mobility and reduce transportation expenses for women and transgender persons across Kerala.
By removing the cost of ordinary bus travel, the scheme seeks to improve access to employment, education, healthcare and essential services.
It also aims to encourage greater use of public transport.
Priyadarshini Scheme: Allocation Details
The reported allocations to KSRTC since the scheme’s introduction are as follows:
Period
Government Allocation
June 15–30, 2026
₹41.50 crore
July 1–15, 2026
₹42.86 crore
July 16–31, 2026
₹46.48 crore
August 1–31, 2026
₹79.53 crore
September 1–30, 2026
₹88.23 crore
A Major Welfare Initiative of the Satheesan Government
The increase in free bus journeys between August and September indicates growing use of the Priyadarshini scheme.
Within months of its launch, the initiative has emerged as a significant public transport welfare programme under Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan’s administration.
The September allocation of ₹88.23 crore further demonstrates the scale of government funding required to maintain the programme.
With the cumulative allocation reported at ₹298.63 crore, the Priyadarshini scheme represents a substantial investment in affordable mobility and public transport accessibility.
