As part of the Shakthi scheme, the transport department will issue “Shakthi Smart Cards” to eligible beneficiaries. These smart cards will be distributed within the next three months, enabling women to travel for free on buses. However, it’s important to note that luxury buses, including Rajahamsa, non-AC sleepers, Airavat, and Ambari, are excluded from the scheme.
In buses operated by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC), 50 percent of the seats will be reserved for men. This reservation policy, however, does not apply to buses of the Bengaluru Metropolitan Road Transport Corporation (BMTC). These guidelines aim to ensure the smooth implementation of the Shakthi scheme and provide clarity on its scope and application. By reserving seats for men in specific transport corporations, the scheme seeks to strike a balance between inclusivity and convenience.
The Shakthi scheme embodies the government’s dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and ensuring their safety and accessibility in public transportation. By removing financial barriers, women can travel more freely, enhancing their mobility, opportunities, and overall well-being. As the implementation of the Shakthi scheme progresses, further updates and announcements will be made to ensure that women in Karnataka can take full advantage of this transformative initiative. The government remains committed to creating an inclusive and gender-sensitive transport system that benefits all citizens.
