Bengaluru: Ramalinga Reddy, the Transport and Muzrai Minister of Karnataka, has been appointed as the head of all four state transport corporations in a late-night order issued by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. This strategic move comes after discussions and consultations within the government. Although Reddy had initially eyed a different portfolio, he has embraced this new responsibility and is determined to make a positive impact in his new role.
Reddy, who previously served as the Home Minister in the Siddaramaiah government, is now the chairperson of Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Northwest Road Transport Corporation (NWRTC), and Kalyan Karnataka Transport Corporation (KKRTC). Typically, this position is offered to MLAs who could not be accommodated in the cabinet. Despite his initial disappointment, Reddy has shown a willingness to adapt and contribute to the development of the transport sector.
Reddy Takes Charge as Head of All 4 State Transport Corporations, Focuses on Shakti Scheme Implementation
Following the appointment, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Bengaluru Rural MP DK Suresh held meetings with Reddy to address any concerns he may have had. These discussions aimed to pacify him and ensure a smooth transition into his new role. It is important for all stakeholders to work together harmoniously for the benefit of the state’s transport system.
In his capacity as the new chairperson, Reddy wasted no time in taking charge. On Tuesday, he conducted a meeting with the managing directors of KSRTC and BMTC to discuss the implementation of the Shakti scheme. The Shakti scheme is a progressive initiative that enables women in Karnataka to travel for free across the state in government-run buses. This scheme, which was one of the pre-poll guarantees made by the Congress, is set to be implemented on June 11.
During the meeting, Reddy emphasized the importance of the Shakti scheme and its potential impact on women’s empowerment and mobility. He announced that starting from June 11, women can apply for Shakti smart cards through the Seva Sindhu portal. The smart cards will allow them to avail of free bus travel within the state. Reddy stressed the convenience and efficiency of the online application process, stating that there will be no physical application required. The government will cover the cost of the smart cards, making them easily accessible to women across Karnataka.
“Ramalinga Reddy Empowered with Authority as Chief of All 4 State Transport Corporations, Sparking a Transformational Power Shift”
Reddy also highlighted the timeline for obtaining the smart cards. He stated that women must apply for and obtain the cards within three months from the Seva Sindhu portal. After the three-month deadline, the smart cards will become mandatory for availing of the free bus travel benefits. This streamlined process ensures that women can quickly and conveniently access the scheme’s benefits.
To ensure a smooth transition and maximum participation, the government has outlined certain guidelines for the Shakti scheme. Until the smart cards are issued, women can travel for free using any identity card issued by the Central or state government that carries their photograph and address. Additionally, the Road Transport Corporations (RTCs) will issue a ‘zero ticket’ for free travel during this interim period.
It is important to note that the scheme is applicable only to women who are domiciled in Karnataka. They will have the privilege of traveling in general and express buses operated by the state transport corporations. However, luxury buses such as Rajahamsa, Non-AC sleeper, Vajra, Vayu Vajra, Airavat, Airavat Club Class, Airavat Gold Class, Ambari, Ambari Dream Class, Ambari Utsav Fly Bus, and EV Power Plus are excluded from the scheme.To ensure equitable access to bus services, half
of the seats on KSRTC, NWKRTC, and KKRTC’s ordinary and express buses will be reserved for men. The government has also made it clear that the reimbursement to the RTCs will be based on the actual distance traveled by women passengers.
Ramalinga Reddy’s appointment as the head of all four state transport corporations signifies a new phase in the development of the transport sector in Karnataka. With his expertise and commitment, he aims to lead these corporations to new heights, ensuring efficiency, accessibility, and convenience for the people of the state. The implementation of the Shakti scheme further demonstrates the government’s dedication to promoting gender equality and empowering women through innovative initiatives.