Patna: The Bihar government has launched new state-run bus services from Patna to the tourist destinations of Rajgir and Kakolat, as part of efforts to improve public transport connectivity and promote tourism across the state.
The services are being operated by the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) and were formally inaugurated by the state’s transport minister, Shravan Kumar. Officials said the routes are expected to make travel easier for residents and visitors travelling to the two popular locations.
Rajgir, known for its historical and religious significance, and Kakolat, a hill-surrounded waterfall destination in Nawada district, attract visitors throughout the year. The introduction of direct bus services is intended to provide a more accessible and affordable travel option for families and groups.
Each bus has a seating capacity of 40 passengers, according to officials. Alongside the launch, the government also introduced two CNG-powered “pink buses” for the Biharsharif Smart City project. These buses are reserved for women passengers.
The state already operates around 100 pink buses in cities including Patna, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur, Gaya, Purnia and Darbhanga. Authorities said efforts are underway to ensure that these services are fully operated by women. Nineteen women drivers are currently undergoing heavy motor vehicle training at the Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) centre in Aurangabad.
Transport officials said the government is also preparing to roll out electric bus services from Patna to several destinations, including Bodh Gaya, Rajgir, Kaimur, Sitamarhi and Vaishali. A detailed plan is being finalised, with inter-departmental coordination between the transport and tourism departments ongoing.
According to officials, the first phase of the electric bus services could begin as early as February, subject to final route approvals.
