Free Bus Travel for Women Soon: Transport Minister

Visakhapatnam: Transport and Sports Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy announced that the eagerly awaited free bus travel scheme for women in Andhra Pradesh will be launched in Visakhapatnam, before being extended to other parts of the state.

The minister was speaking in Visakhapatnam on Sunday at the inauguration of APL Season 3. He said consultations will be held with women to address their specific transportation needs.

Ramprasad Reddy criticised the previous government for inadequately integrating the AP State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) into the state government framework.

He promised a comprehensive overhaul of the RTC without causing any inconvenience to staff and employees. He announced plans to introduce electric buses to promote sustainable and eco-friendly public transportation.

On sports, the minister said the state government will implement a strict policy to prevent political interference in sports activities. "We have lost many talented players due to political interference," he underlined.

Ramprasad Reddy said the role of political leaders should be limited to funding and infrastructure development, such as increasing the number of sports grounds and supporting young athletes.

He said the TD government will prioritise sports by integrating them into school and college curriculum, fostering a robust sports culture from an early age.