Patna: In a major push to improve interstate connectivity and provide relief to migrant workers and passengers, the Bihar government has announced the daily operation of 149 deluxe buses connecting the state to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and West Bengal. 

The initiative, launched under the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, is expected to benefit nearly 6,000 commuters every day.

As part of the plan, the state will procure 75 AC deluxe buses, each costing ₹74 lakh, and 74 non-AC deluxe buses at ₹68 lakh per unit. The government has allocated ₹55.50 crore for AC buses and ₹50.32 crore for non-AC buses as an assistance grant to the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC).

In addition to meeting the surge in travel demand during festive seasons such as Durga Puja, Diwali, Chhath, and Holi, the government has also approved the operation of 150 new AC buses under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. These buses will also run on key routes to major neighboring states.

With this, the BSRTC has approved three major schemes for the operation of a total of 299 AC and non-AC deluxe buses across interstate routes.

Speaking on the development, Transport Secretary Sandeep Kumar R Pudkalkatti said, “The operation of these new buses will significantly strengthen the interstate public transport system. Passengers will now have access to more modern, comfortable, and safe travel options at economical rates.”

He added that the initiative is not only aimed at enhancing travel convenience but will also generate new employment opportunities at the local level.

The move comes as a timely response to the needs of thousands of migrant workers and residents of Bihar who travel frequently to other states for livelihood and other purposes..