Patna: Direct bus services between Bihar and Haryana are set to begin soon, offering an additional travel option for people returning home during Diwali and Chhath, according to the state transport department.
The services will cover 12 major routes, connecting cities in Bihar with destinations in Haryana. The move is aimed at easing travel for non-resident Biharis during the festive season, when demand for transport to Bihar increases sharply.
149 Buses Being Procured
The Bihar State Road Transport Corporation has completed the tendering process and purchased buses for the interstate service, according to the department.
The Corporation is procuring 149 buses, including 75 AC buses, which will be deployed on routes linking major Bihar cities such as Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Purnia and Madhubani with cities including Ambala, Gurugram and Panipat in Haryana.
Route Permits Cleared
The interstate service follows discussions between the transport authorities of the states. Bihar Transport Minister Damodar Rawat recently met Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh to discuss route permits for operating special buses from Haryana.
Permission has subsequently been granted for bus operations on the Bihar-Haryana route, paving the way for regular services by the state transport corporation.
Service To Also Help Delhi Residents
The new routes are also expected to benefit people living in Delhi by providing another road-based travel option to and from Bihar.
An MoU concerning the interstate bus service between Bihar and Haryana was signed in July, according to reports. The planned network is expected to provide greater connectivity during the upcoming festive period.
Alternative Amid Festive Travel Demand
Large numbers of migrant workers and other residents travel back to Bihar during Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath. Train services on several routes become heavily booked during this period, with many passengers relying on waiting-list tickets.
The new bus services are intended to supplement existing transport options and give passengers an alternative for long-distance travel during the festive season.
