In 2023, the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) had announced a Mahalakshmi scheme called Zero-Tickets. Its main aim was to provide free travel to girls, women, and transgender persons on the buses. This was in alignment with the initiatives introduced in Karnataka, Delhi, Punjabi and Tamil Nadu. The free bus scheme has greatly benefited women, especially those who belong to humble backgrounds or are not financially sound. The Zero Ticket system has enabled and encouraged them to travel anywhere in the state without any issue, as long as they have an Aadhar Card. A few conductors have been scamming people.
The TSRTC buses are crowded as more and more women from economically weaker backgrounds are finding it easy to board a bus and travel to any destination without worrying about ticket charges. But this amazing scheme is being exploited for the personal gains of a few. There have been reports that a few conductors are taking advantage of the scheme for their financial gain.
As per reports, conductors are issuing the Zero Tickets under the Mahalakshmi scheme to men. While they are handing out the zero tickets, they are also pocketing the ticket prices for themselves. It has been reported that when a passenger questions them, they simply state that it was a mistake and quickly issue a regular ticket to the passenger. But when not questioned, they keep the money for themselves.
On June 26, a passenger travelled from Kothapet to Saroornagar by bus. The conductor issued him a ticket under the Mahalakshmi scheme, Zero Ticket, at the price of the regular ticket. A similar incident occurred on July 7 when a passenger travelling by bus from LB Nagar to Manneguda, was issued a zero ticket. Yet again, on August 4, another instance took place where the conductor took the money but issued the free ticket. This is affecting the government revenue.
Catch the latest developments on Bangladesh Unrest And Sheikh Hasina with our live blog.
Comments
0 comment