Stree Shakti, Divyang Shakti schemes increased APSRTC occupancy rate, says Minister

Minister for Transport, Youth Affairs and Sports Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy said that a series of reforms and welfare measures implemented by the TDP-led NDA government in the Andhra Pradesh Public Transport Department (APPTD) and the A.P. State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) had gained positive response.

Addressing the media at the Secretariat on Monday, the Minister highlighted the success of the Stree Shakti and Divyang Shakti schemes, which benefitted 73.62 crore passengers and 38.22 lakh persons with disabilities since their launch. The APSRTC occupancy ratio rose from 69% to 92%, thanks to the two initiatives, he said.

The APSRTC focussed on modernising amenities at bus stations, improved operational efficiency, introduced 1,489 new buses and recorded a decline in accident rates. The Minister said departure punctuality had increased from 90% to 96%, while arrival punctuality had improved from 79% to 88%.

The Minister said non-fare box revenue increased to ₹404.22 crore, while logistics revenue reached ₹227 crore. Between June 2024 and March 2026, the corporation repaid loans and interest to the tune of ₹1,240 crore. The Minister said that the Transport department’s revenue reached ₹5,050.35 crore in 2025-26, while vehicle sales rose to 9.81 lakh units, reflecting growth in the sector.

The Minister also mentioned that support had been extended to autorickshaw and taxi drivers. During 2025-26, financial assistance amounting to ₹436 crore was provided to 2.9 lakh beneficiaries, he said.

Talking about the government’s plans for future, the Minister said 8,321 electric buses would be introduced in the coming years.

Employee welfare continues to be the top priority, he said, adding that measures such as lifetime Employee Health Scheme (EHS) medical services, 1,780 compassionate appointments, health and accident insurance coverage, promotions, and gratuity payments have been implemented to improve the well-being of employees.

Officials from the Transport department, APSRTC took part in the press conference.