The Bihar government is set to significantly improve the travel experience for thousands of daily commuters and transport staff. In a major initiative, clean and affordable food canteens, operating under the banner of 'Jeevika Didi Ki Rasoi', will be inaugurated at 19 key bus depots across the state. This move directly addresses long-standing complaints about poor food arrangements at these crucial transit hubs.
Minister's Inspection Spurs Action
The decision followed a recent inspection tour by State Transport Minister Shravan Kumar. During visits to depots in Patna and other locations, the minister was deeply dissatisfied with the existing food facilities. He emphasized that the lack of proper, hygienic eating options during long journeys causes considerable hardship for both passengers and drivers.
"Passengers and drivers should be provided with proper facilities at bus depots," Minister Kumar stated. He subsequently issued directives to launch the 'Jeevika Didi Ki Rasoi' initiative at depots at the earliest possible date. An official noted that this step "will not only improve the image of bus depots but also provide relief to passengers."
First Phase Targets 19 Key Locations
The rollout will happen in phases. In the initial stage, the canteens will be established in 19 major bus depots located in:
- Bankipur, Ara, Biharsharif, Phulwarisharif
- Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi, Motihari
- Chhapra, Siwan, Darbhanga
- Gaya, Aurangabad, Jehanabad, Nawada
- Bhagalpur, Jamui, Munger, Purnia, and Saharsa.
The official confirmed that based on the success of this first phase, the scheme can be expanded further to other district towns.
A Dual Benefit: Convenience and Empowerment
This project is a unique inter-departmental collaboration. Minister Shravan Kumar, who also holds charge of the Rural Development Department, has facilitated coordination between the Transport and Rural Development departments. The Jeevika scheme, which focuses on women's livelihood, falls under the latter.
The 'Jeevika Didi Ki Rasoi' model is already a proven success, operating effectively at hospitals, government offices, and other public spaces, offering tasty and nutritious meals at reasonable rates. A Jeevika official highlighted the multifaceted impact of bringing this facility to bus depots.
"This decision will strengthen passenger convenience, driver welfare, and women's self-reliance and self-employment," the official said on Sunday. By leveraging this existing framework, the initiative ensures a reliable supply of quality food while simultaneously creating sustainable entrepreneurship opportunities for women associated with the Jeevika program, making it a win-win for all stakeholders.
