Free Bus Rides Drive Temple Rush in Rayalaseema

Temples across Rayalaseema are witnessing a sharp rise in devotee footfall during weekends, with women accounting for nearly 70 to 75 per cent of visitors. Prominent pilgrimage centres as well as lesser-known temples are seeing larger crowds, indicating a shift in travel patterns. 

Officials attribute the increase partly to the Stree Shakti free bus travel scheme, which has encouraged more women to visit temples. APSRTC sources said the average occupancy rate on buses across the region has reached 88 per cent and rises above 90 per cent



during weekends, festivals and long holidays.

“To meet the growing demand, we are operating full services even on weekends. A majority of passengers are women availing themselves of the free travel facility under the Stree Shakti scheme,” said APSRTC Kadapa regional manager P.S. Ramesh Babu. Data from Nandyal district highlights the trend. Between August 15, 2025, and May 15, 2026, nearly 1.70 crore passengers travelled on APSRTC buses, with women accounting for around 75 per cent. Officials said the numbers were steadily increasing.