A Chennai student survey on Tamil Nadu’s free bus scheme for women highlights benefits but recommends more low-floor buses and improved services
Survey on Free Bus Ride Scheme for Women in Tamil Nadu
A survey conducted by students of The New College has evaluated the impact of the State Government’s free bus ride scheme for women. The survey received positive feedback but included suggestions for improvement.
Details of the Research Project
The research project, titled ‘Impact of the Magalir Vidiyal Payanam’ scheme, focused on women’s mobility and empowerment in Tamil Nadu. It involved 300 women and covered 135 routes.
Twenty-five postgraduate and undergraduate students from the Department of Commerce conducted this study over three months. They interviewed women from various socio-economic backgrounds.
Recommendations for Improvement
Recommendations from the survey include:
| Recommendation | Details |
|---|---|
| More Low-Floor Buses | On busy routes for elderly and differently-abled |
| Increased Bus Frequency | On underserved routes |
| Regular Bus Servicing | To maintain bus condition |
| Align Schedules | With peak travel hours |
| Real-Time Information | Display inside buses and at bus stops |
| Covered Waiting Areas | With seating |
Impact of the Scheme
Introduced in 2021, the free bus travel scheme has reduced travel-related financial burdens for students, workers, and low-income families. It has also improved access to education and employment.
Challenges Faced by Commuters
The survey identified several challenges. The most common issue was the limited number of buses on certain routes, reported by 116 out of 300 respondents. Other issues included poor bus condition (62 respondents) and overcrowding (60 respondents). Additionally, 48 respondents noted inconvenient timings, suggesting that schedules may not meet commuter needs during peak hours. Although fewer respondents (14) raised safety concerns, this remains a significant issue.
Next Steps for the Research Team
J. Sulaiman, the principal investigator, stated that the report has been submitted to the Centre for Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation at the college. “We will next be submitting it to the government. Our findings say that people want the scheme to continue,” said Sulaiman, who is also an assistant professor in the PG and Research Department of Commerce.
