Metro Ridership Surges Despite Free Bus Scheme

24 May 2024 CW Team

Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has reported a significant 30% increase in Metro Rail ridership over the past year, countering concerns that the Shakti scheme, which offers free rides to women on non-luxury government buses, would negatively impact metro revenues. This statement was in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks suggesting that such free travel initiatives could detract from the financial health of metro services. The Shakti scheme, launched on June 11, 2023, has since facilitated approximately 67.34 crore free rides for women, demonstrating its popularity and the government's commitment to enhancing public transport accessibility for women across the state .

Despite the Prime Minister's concerns, the data presented by Minister Reddy highlights not only an increase in metro usage but also a robust revenue generation of Rs 130 crore in the last year alone. This growth in both footfall and financial performance underscores the effectiveness of Karnataka's integrated transport strategy, which seems to complement rather than compete with the metro system .

The success of the Shakti scheme and the surge in metro ridership are indicative of a broader acceptance and increased reliance on public transport among the local population, potentially driven by the economic benefits and convenience it offers. This trend is particularly noteworthy as it aligns with global urban mobility goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable city planning.

In light of these developments, the Karnataka government's approach offers a model for other states, showing that enhancing bus transport for specific demographics can coexist with and even boost metro rail usage, contrary to concerns about possible negative impacts on revenue and ridership.

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