The Tamil Nadu government has issued a Government Order (GO) extending the ‘Magalir Vidiyal Payanam’ scheme to cover differently-abled persons and their companions in the state’s hilly regions.
The Magalir Vidiyal Payanam initiative, introduced by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, already allows women to travel free of cost on ordinary government buses across Tamil Nadu. The scheme has become a major relief for lakhs of women commuters.
Fulfilling the Chief Minister’s Independence Day announcement, the new order permits a person with a disability and one accompanying caretaker to travel free of charge in all regular fare government buses operating in hill areas.
Officials said the move aims to ensure inclusive public transport access and reduce travel hardships for differently-abled individuals in remote regions.
The government described the decision as another milestone in social equity and welfare, reinforcing Tamil Nadu’s commitment to building a barrier-free and compassionate transport system for all citizens.
