The Shakti Scheme, a flagship initiative of the Karnataka government offering free bus travel for women, is underutilized in Davangere as many women continue to prefer shared autos for their daily commute. Commuters cited time convenience as the primary factor influencing their choice, according to a report.
Reasons for Low Uptake
Despite the financial benefits of free bus travel, women in Davangere have shown a preference for shared autos, which offer more flexibility and shorter travel times. The scheme, launched to empower women and reduce transportation costs, has not seen the expected adoption in this region.
Time Convenience Over Cost Savings
Many women stated that while the Shakti Scheme saves money, the time saved by using shared autos outweighs the financial advantage. Buses often have fixed routes and schedules, leading to longer waiting times and indirect travel paths. In contrast, shared autos provide door-to-door service and quicker commutes, especially for short distances.
Impact on Scheme Effectiveness
The underuse of the scheme in Davangere raises questions about its overall effectiveness in meeting the needs of women. Officials are now considering adjustments to bus routes and frequencies to better compete with shared autos. Local transport authorities are also exploring ways to integrate shared autos into the formal public transport system to ensure women benefit from both cost savings and convenience.
The Shakti Scheme remains popular in other parts of Karnataka, but the Davangere case highlights the importance of considering local commuting patterns and preferences when implementing such initiatives.
