Bengaluru, June 11- “Student bus pass for each semester would cost Rs. 1500. Now as this is made free for girls, Rs. 3000 will be saved. I can buy something useful for my family”, says Sanjana, studying in Maharani College.
She was happy to travel with Chief Minister after he launched “Shakti” the free bus travel for women, one of the 5 guarantee schemes of the Government.
She feels that this would ease out her parents’ burden. Her parents are construction labours.
Similarly, Sarala, a domestic help, travels to Hebbal from Ganganagar everyday for work. She will save Rs. 20 per day and she feels she can buy something needed for her home. Ganga Gauri, another domestic help, was all smiles when she said, free travel scheme makes her happy.
Shashikala, studying in Malleshwaram Girls PU College, has lost her father. Her mother is working as construction worker to make both ends meet. This free travel facility will help to buy something that supports her education, she feels.
Ambika, who does a small job near Mysore Bank Circle, will be able to save Rs. 40/- a day. She feels, this savings will help her be a little more generous to spend for grocery, veggies etc.
While talking to these women, it was evident that, they wanted to spend whatever the amount saved, for the family.
Nandini, Conductor of the bus, in which Chief Minister Siddaramaiah travelled, was proud to have this opportunity to issue first ticket. Suitable modifications have been made in ETM to facilitate free travel for women and there is no confusion about it, she explained.
The women in the first trip were treated with roses and sweets along with the tickets.
After the grand function on the Grandsteps of Vidhanasoudha, Chief Minister travelled in the BMTC bus to Kempegowda Bus Station, where he lauched Shakti scheme for KSRTC, NWKRTC and NEKRTC buses. Later he returned in the same bus to Vidhanasoudha and conducted a press confere
