Patna: Bihar is set to introduce major reforms in its transport sector after the state’s new transport minister, Shravan Kumar, took charge on Monday. In his first high-level review meeting, Kumar unveiled what he described as a “transformative, youth-centric step”: allowing Class 7 pass candidates to apply for conductor positions in government-run buses.
The decision, he said, will open doors for thousands of rural and economically disadvantaged young people who previously could not meet the higher qualification requirements. “This is a strong move towards youth empowerment,” he told officials during the meeting.
Signalling a wider overhaul
Kumar was welcomed by senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary Mihir Kumar Singh and State Transport Commissioner Abhishek Dwivedi, who briefed him on ongoing projects. The minister made it clear that major structural reforms are expected in the coming months.
Cleaning up bus stations and transport hubs
In a series of directives, Kumar ordered immediate improvements in basic amenities at bus stations, including:
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reliable drinking water
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clean and functional toilets
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seating facilities
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enhanced security and sanitation
He also issued strict orders to remove illegal encroachments on bus stands and stoppages, a long-standing issue affecting traffic flow and passenger safety.
Faster implementation of welfare schemes
Reviewing the Driver Welfare Scheme, the minister emphasised that drivers are the “backbone of the transport system.” He instructed officials to expedite the rollout of:
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health and life insurance
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uniforms
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pension benefits
Any delay or negligence, he warned, “will not be tolerated.”
New buses to replace ageing fleet
Instead of scrapping old government buses where they lie idle, the department will speed up their auction, redirecting the revenue towards the purchase of new, modern buses. The move aims to improve both the financial health of the corporation and the quality of services offered to passengers.
Expansion of government bus routes
Kumar also announced plans to increase the number of government buses on all major routes, a step expected to provide commuters with affordable and reliable transport while curbing the dominance of private operators.
Officials including Additional Secretary Praveen Kumar, Corporation Administrator Atul Kumar Verma, and Joint Secretary Krityanand Ranjan attended the meeting.
