AP Congress Takes On Government Over APSRTC Privatisation Move

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president YS Sharmila has accused the State government of pursuing policies that could gradually erode the strength of the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) , warning that public transport should not be sacrificed in the name of modernization.

Addressing concerns over the corporation's future, Sharmila alleged that attempts to dilute APSRTC's role have resurfaced under the current administration. She argued that a series of policy decisions, ranging from the increased reliance on hired buses in previous years to the proposed operation of electric buses through private entities , point to a broader trend of transferring public services into private hands.

According to Sharmila, public transport is not merely a commercial service but a critical lifeline for millions of people, particularly those from economically weaker sections. She said any move that reduces the corporation's direct control over its operations could ultimately affect affordability, accessibility and the quality of services available to passengers across the State.

The Congress leader described the government's approach as a form of "silent privatisation" , claiming that APSRTC is being weakened gradually rather than through an outright policy announcement. She maintained that the party would stand firmly with employees and labour unions fighting to protect the corporation's interests and preserve its role as a public-sector transport provider.

While acknowledging the need to reduce emissions and promote sustainable mobility, Sharmila stressed that environmental goals should not come at the expense of APSRTC's institutional strength. She urged the government to ensure that electric buses are procured, owned and operated directly by APSRTC , instead of being managed through private operators.

Highlighting long-pending workforce issues, she called for the immediate recruitment of nearly 10,000 vacant positions , saying adequate staffing is essential for maintaining services and supporting future expansion plans. She also demanded that the government halt any efforts to lease valuable APSRTC land assets and expedite the resolution of pending financial matters related to employee wage revision .

The remarks add a political dimension to the growing debate over the future of public transportation in Andhra Pradesh, with employee unions and opposition parties increasingly questioning the extent of private participation in the corporation's operations. As discussions over fleet modernization and electric mobility continue, the future structure of APSRTC is emerging as a key issue in the State's transport policy discourse.