Free travel for Kerala women on 3,125 buses from today; Luggage up to 15 kg also free

Thiruvananthapuram: The 'Priyadarshini' scheme, which offers free travel for women and transgender individuals on KSRTC ordinary buses, commences on Monday.

Chief Minister VD Satheesan will inaugurate the project at the Thampanoor bus terminal at 8.30 am. Local-level inaugurations, led by people's representatives, will also take place at each depot. The fare exemption will not apply to journeys undertaken prior to the official inauguration.

The free travel facility will be available across 3,125 ordinary buses statewide. To help passengers identify them, these buses will feature 'Priyadarshini' stickers. No identity card is required to avail of the service.

Passengers must collect a 'Priyadarshini' ticket from the conductor. The exemption applies to Ordinary, City Ordinary, Limited Stop Ordinary, Town-to-Town, Fair Stage Limited Stop, Point-to-Point Ordinary and Gramavandi buses.

15 kg luggage free

As is currently permitted on ordinary buses, women can transport up to 15 kg of luggage free of charge.

If accompanied by boys aged between four and 11, a half-fare ticket must be purchased for them.