Patna: Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) has introduced more than 200 inter-state buses to meet the surge in travel during the festival season. The service, which began on Saturday, aims to offer safe and affordable transport for residents and migrant workers travelling for Durga Puja, Diwali, Chhath, and other celebrations.
A total of 93 buses departed from Bihar to five neighbouring states: Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Haryana, and Delhi. Of these, 35 buses left from Patna, while the state is also receiving 24 buses from West Bengal and 15 from Delhi.
BSRTC has expanded digital services for passengers. Online booking has been available since September 1 via the corporation’s website, with payment options including UPI, debit and credit cards, and net banking. Festival buses feature AC seating and sleeper options and will operate until November 30. Fare and timetable information is displayed both on the buses and online to curb excessive charges by private operators.
In addition, special arrangements have been made at designated bus stops, including clean toilets for men and women. The state government has announced subsidies totalling Rs 60.35 crore, with Rs 24 crore allocated to passengers to keep fares low and Rs 36.35 crore for bus drivers.
