BSRTC Deploys 200 Interstate Buses for Holi Season to Ease Travel Congestion
The Bihar State Road Transport Corporation has rolled out a major initiative to tackle the expected travel surge during the Holi festival. The corporation will operate approximately 200 interstate festival buses. This special service aims to provide reliable transportation for the thousands of people traveling during this festive period.
Service Details and Booking Information
These dedicated festival buses will run from February 15 to March 15. Passengers can secure their seats in advance, as ticket booking opens on February 1. The booking process is designed for convenience. Travelers can make reservations through the official BSRTC website using multiple payment methods.
Payment options include UPI, debit cards, credit cards, and net banking. This digital approach simplifies the booking experience for everyone.
Fleet Composition and Passenger Comfort
The fleet will feature a mix of AC deluxe and non-AC deluxe buses. Each bus offers comfortable seating for 50 to 60 passengers. To ensure a pleasant journey, BSRTC has committed to providing clean toilet facilities at designated bus stops along the routes. These facilities will be available for both men and women.
This public-private partnership model helps in efficiently managing the services. The transport department is currently finalizing the specific routes and fare structures. There is also a strong possibility that the state government will announce special discounts for these festival services, making travel more affordable.
Connecting Bihar with Key Destinations
The interstate buses will connect Bihar with several major destinations. Key states include Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jharkhand. This network aims to serve migrant workers and students who often face severe congestion on trains during major festivals.
Transport Minister Shravan Kumar emphasized the initiative's goal. He stated, "These interstate buses are intended to provide a reliable alternative for migrant workers and students who frequently face heavy congestion on trains during major festivals. This initiative aims to ensure passengers reach their destinations on time and comfortably."
Building on Past Success
The corporation has experience with similar initiatives. Last year, between September 20 and November 19, BSRTC operated 220 buses. These buses served nearly 2.50 lakh passengers during that period.
On average, 107 buses operated daily with an impressive occupancy rate of 81%. More than 8,000 tickets were booked online, demonstrating the public's positive response to such services. This past success provides a solid foundation for the current Holi season operations.
The introduction of these 200 festival buses represents a proactive step by BSRTC. It addresses the seasonal travel demand while prioritizing passenger comfort and reliability. As Holi approaches, this service is set to become a vital travel option for many people in Bihar and beyond.
