UPSRTC Intensifies Operations in Noida and Ghaziabad for Holi Festive Season
The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has launched a comprehensive strategy to manage the anticipated surge in travel during the Holi festival. In Noida, the corporation is operating 180 buses round the clock to accommodate the increased passenger flow, ensuring seamless connectivity across the city.
Enhanced Staffing and Passenger Support in Noida
According to SN Pandey, assistant regional manager of UPSRTC's Noida depot, approximately 800 employees, including drivers and conductors, have been mobilized for the festive period. This deployment aims to maintain efficient service and safety standards. The Noida depot, which typically serves around 35,000 passengers daily, is projecting a rise in footfall to nearly 40,000 during Holi. To assist travelers, a dedicated helpline (0120-2507864) has been established for inquiries and support.
In addition to operational measures, Udit Narayan Pandey, ARTO (Enforcement), has issued directives to drivers to strictly adhere to speed limits and ensure the mandatory use of seat belts, emphasizing passenger safety during the busy season.
Ghaziabad Implements Similar Festive Transport Measures
Parallel efforts are underway in Ghaziabad, as confirmed by Kesri Nandan, UPSRTC regional manager for the city. Ghaziabad depots are operating 1,092 buses, with an additional 300 trips introduced to meet the heightened demand. These buses will run during both day and night hours, following adequate cooling periods to ensure vehicle reliability.
The enhanced services cater to routes from Ghaziabad to key destinations such as Meerut, Sambhal, Sitapur, and Hapur, where a significant number of passengers travel during festivals. The additional trips are scheduled to remain in effect for 10 days, from February 28 to March 9. To motivate staff, drivers and conductors assigned to these extra services will receive an incentive of Rs 4,000 each, as announced by Nandan.
This coordinated approach by UPSRTC underscores its commitment to facilitating safe and efficient travel during one of India's most vibrant festivals, addressing the logistical challenges posed by the Holi rush in urban centers like Noida and Ghaziabad.
