Patna: Bihar’s state-run “Pink Bus” service is set to be fully operated by women, as the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) launches recruitment for female drivers. Applications are open until December 15, with selected candidates scheduled to begin a two-week specialised training at the Institute of Driving and Traffic Research (IDTR) in Aurangabad on January 20.
The training will include accommodation and boarding, and those who successfully complete the programme will be offered contractual employment. Eligible applicants must hold an HMV or LMV driving licence and have at least three years of driving experience. The age limit for candidates is 21 to 40 years, as of January 1,2026. The corporation will also support women with LMV licences in obtaining an HMV licence to expand participation.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had inaugurated 20 pink buses on May 16. Currently, eight operate in Patna, four in Muzaffarpur, and two each in Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, Purnia, and Gaya. In the second phase, the network will expand with 22 additional buses in Patna, 16 in Muzaffarpur, 13 each in Darbhanga and Gaya, and eight each in Purnia and Bhagalpur, bringing the total fleet to 100 buses across the state.
The CNG-powered buses are designed with women passengers in mind, featuring sanitary pad vending machines, contraceptive pills, panic buttons, GPS, cameras, charging points, microphones, and music systems. Both drivers and conductors will be women, a move aimed at enhancing safety and confidence for female commuters.
The BSRTC said the initiative offers employment opportunities, respect, and a pathway to self-reliance for the daughters of Bihar. More details are available on the corporation’s website and at local transport offices.
