In a commendable move to support students appearing for the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has announced free bus travel for Class 10 students in Visakhapatnam. This initiative, effective from March 17 to March 30, 2025, aims to alleviate transportation challenges and ensure timely arrival at examination centers.

Initiative Details

APSRTC Regional Manager B. Appala Naidu disclosed that students can avail themselves of complimentary rides on Ultra Pallevelugu, Pallevelugu, and city buses by presenting their examination hall tickets. This facility is designed to ease the financial burden on families and provide secure transportation for students during the examination period.

Government Support

State Transport Minister Mandipalli Ram Prasad Reddy has endorsed this initiative, emphasizing the government's commitment to facilitating education. He highlighted that the free bus travel arrangement is part of broader efforts to support students during critical academic milestones.

Student Participation

The SSC examinations witness substantial participation across the state. In Visakhapatnam district alone, 29,927 students are scheduled to take the exams across 134 centers. Statewide, 5,64,064 students from English medium and 51,069 from Telugu medium schools are set to appear for the exams commencing on March 17, 2025.

Operational Measures

To ensure the smooth implementation of this initiative, APSRTC has deployed depot managers, supervisors, and controllers at major bus stops in Visakhapatnam district. These officials, present from 7:00 am onwards, assist students in boarding buses, ensuring they reach their examination centers on time.