Mahalakshmi Smart Cards To Be Launched On June 2
The implementation of the smart card system will further digitize and modernize TGSRTC services.
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy will launch the Mahalakshmi Smart Cards on June 2, coinciding with Telangana Formation Day, to modernise free bus travel for women in TGSRTC buses. The scheme will first roll out on a pilot basis in one mandal per district. Officials said it will be extended statewide only after technical glitches and operational challenges identified during the pilot phase are resolved.
The Mahalakshmi zero-ticket scheme was introduced on December 9, 2023, allowing women to travel free in RTC buses by showing their Aadhaar card. However, manual verification of Aadhaar details by conductors during each trip proved time-consuming. The new smart card system aims to streamline the process and improve transparency.
Each Mahalakshmi Smart Card will feature an embedded chip along with the passenger’s name, photograph, QR code, and other key details. The cards will be linked digitally to the user’s Aadhaar. Passengers can simply scan the card while boarding, speeding up ticket issuance and making identity verification easier for conductors.
Women can apply for the cards at MeeSeva centres or TGSRTC bus pass counters for a nominal fee of Rs.50. Applicants must submit their Aadhaar card, a passport-sized photograph, and a mobile number. Cards will be issued after processing. Until the smart cards are fully rolled out, the existing system will continue.
Women can still avail free travel by presenting Aadhaar or other government-issued ID. However, officials indicated that presenting the smart card may become mandatory once implementation is complete.
The government expects the new system to curb misuse of the free travel scheme and reduce the need for women to carry physical ID cards daily. Officials added that the move will particularly benefit women in rural areas and further digitise TGSRTC services.
