Tamil Nadu Vetri Payanam Scheme to Expand Free Bus Travel for Women From October 2

The Tamil Nadu government is set to expand its free bus travel programme for women under the Vetri Payanam Scheme from October 2, 2026. The expanded initiative is expected to benefit around 84.32 lakh women every day across the state.

The scheme will extend free travel beyond ordinary city and town buses to include selected Express, Limited Stop Service (LSS), Deluxe, Mofussil Ordinary and Ghat Ordinary government buses. The expansion is intended to improve access to workplaces, educational institutions and essential medical services.

84.32 Lakh Women Expected to Benefit Daily

Under the expanded programme, 12,692 government buses

will be covered. These buses represent around 69% of the total fleet operated by Tamil Nadu’s seven State Transport Corporations.

The designated buses are expected to make 1,65,312 single trips each day, accounting for about 85% of the state’s total bus operations.

The scheme is aimed at reducing transportation costs for women and girl students, helping them travel to work, colleges, hospitals and other essential destinations.

Free Travel Extended to More Bus Services

The expanded Vetri Payanam facility will cover Express, LSS and Deluxe buses operating within corporation and municipal limits

. It will also include Mofussil Ordinary buses and Ghat Ordinary buses operating on routes exceeding 40 kilometres.

This represents an expansion from the existing free travel facility available on eligible ordinary city and town bus services.

Electronic Ticketing System and Trial Run

Preparations for the statewide rollout are already underway. Integration of Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs)

with the buses covered by the scheme has been completed.

Officials have been instructed to complete system testing and verification by September 25, 2026. A statewide trial run is scheduled for September 27, ahead of the formal launch on October 2.

The Tamil Nadu government announced the expansion in the state Assembly on August 24, 2026, with the scheme scheduled to come into effect statewide on October 2.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on information released by the Tamil Nadu government and reports available as of the time of writing. Scheme coverage, bus services, implementation details and other provisions may be updated by the authorities. Readers should check official government announcements for the latest information.