Article
WOMEN’S MOBILITY AS PUBLIC POLICY: ASSESSING THE EMPOWERMENT EFFECTS OF FREE BUS TRAVEL IN TELANGANA
Women’s mobility is a critical determinant of economic participation, social inclusion, and overall empowerment. In Telangana, gendered barriers such as high transport costs, safety concerns, and limited access to public transit have historically constrained women’s freedom of movement. Recognizing mobility as a catalyst for gender equity, the Government of Telangana introduced a free bus travel policy for women, aimed at enhancing accessibility and promoting empowerment across social and economic spheres. This study critically examines the impact of free bus travel on women’s empowerment in Telangana, focusing on employment opportunities, educational access, healthcare utilization, and social autonomy. Utilizing a descriptive and analytical approach based on secondary data including government reports, policy documents, academic literature, and empirical studies the research highlights both the benefits and challenges of the initiative. Findings indicate that the policy has substantially reduced financial barriers, increased workforce participation, improved educational continuity, and strengthened social and psychological autonomy, particularly among low-income and rural women. Nevertheless, challenges such as overcrowding, safety risks, and service limitations remain. The study underscores that free public transportation constitutes a potent gender-responsive policy tool, whose long-term effectiveness relies on complementary infrastructure improvements, safety interventions, and sustained policy support. The study offers actionable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and public transport authorities aiming to design inclusive, gender-sensitive mobility solutions that empower women and promote equitable development.
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