UPSRTC Ramps Up Holi Transport with Massive Bus Service Expansion in Prayagraj
The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has unveiled a significant enhancement to its bus services to accommodate the surge in passenger traffic during the upcoming Holi celebrations. This strategic move is designed to alleviate the long waiting times and overcrowding typically experienced during this festive period.
Extended Service Period and Key Operational Details
The additional bus services will be operational from February 28 to March 9, spanning an 11-day window to cover both pre- and post-Holi travel demands. During this period, UPSRTC will deploy 148 extra trips daily on crucial routes, culminating in a total of 1,628 additional trips overall. This expansion aims to facilitate convenient travel for individuals journeying to Prayagraj for the festivities and those returning to Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Delhi afterward.
Designated Bus Stations and Route-Specific Enhancements
Passengers can access these augmented services at several key bus stations in Prayagraj, including:
- Civil Lines, which has been temporarily relocated to an area near CMP Degree College
- Zero Road, shifted to a vicinity near Leprosy Crossing
- Leader Road
- Jhunsi bus stations
On the high-demand Delhi–Prayagraj route, seven buses have been specifically allocated to run supplementary trips alongside their regular schedules. Furthermore, UPSRTC has increased the frequency on seven prominent routes, with the following breakdown of additional trips:
- Prayagraj-Lucknow: 34 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Ayodhya: 20 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Kanpur: 24 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Varanasi: 24 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Jaunpur-Gorakhpur: 26 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Mirzapur: 10 extra trips
- Prayagraj-Banda: 10 extra trips
Incentive Scheme for Staff to Ensure Smooth Operations
To guarantee the seamless execution of these expanded services, UPSRTC has introduced a comprehensive incentive scheme for its personnel. Ravindra Kumar Singh, the Regional Manager of UPSRTC, detailed that drivers, conductors, and workshop staff who complete nine consecutive days of duty and operate buses for an average of 300 kilometers daily will receive Rs 400 per day, totaling Rs 3,600. Those working for ten days will be compensated with Rs 4,500.
Additionally, contractual and outsourced drivers and conductors will be entitled to an extra payment at the rate of 55 paise per kilometer for any distance covered beyond their normal trip assignments. This initiative is intended to motivate staff and maintain high service standards during the peak travel season.
Anticipated Impact and Official Statements
UPSRTC officials have expressed optimism that these arrangements will provide much-needed relief to passengers navigating the Holi rush. By significantly boosting capacity and streamlining operations, the corporation aims to enhance travel convenience and reduce congestion, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable festive experience for all commuters.
