Implementation of Smart Cards for Free Bus Travel

The Telangana government has directed the State Road Transport Corporation to expedite the preparation of smart cards for women beneficiaries under the Mahalakshmi free bus travel scheme. The government has reportedly taken an in principle decision to distribute the smart cards from June 2. As part of the 2026-27 State Budget preparatory meetings, Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka held a review meeting at the Secretariat on Wednesday. Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, RTC Managing Director Nagi Reddy and other senior officials attended the meeting. The RTC MD briefed the Finance Minister on fund allocation proposals for the corporation in the upcoming budget.

During the meeting, Bhatti Vikramarka instructed officials to ensure early distribution of smart cards to women beneficiaries. The RTC MD reportedly presented three types of smart cards to the Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister. Officials stated that the scheme will initially be implemented as a pilot project in one mandal per district. After resolving any technical issues, the smart cards will be issued statewide. The three smart card models are also expected to be presented to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy. Around five lakh beneficiaries will receive smart cards in the pilot phase. The chip enabled cards are estimated to cost approximately Rs 75 crore, and the RTC has requested the State Government to provide financial assistance for the project.