Patna: Residents in Bihar will now be able to hire government-run buses for weddings, family functions and religious journey, after a policy shift by the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation aimed at improving public access and boosting revenue.
The move marks a departure from existing practice, under which the Corporation’s buses were largely reserved for official duties, departmental use and educational trips organised by government schools. Under new directives issued from the organisation’s headquarters, private individuals can now book buses for personal use based on their requirements.
Officials say the initiative is designed to offer a more affordable alternative to private operators, while maintaining better service standards. Fixed fares have been introduced for journeys of up to 240 kilometres, with a 22-seater bus priced at Rs 7,700, a 32-seater at Rs 11,200, and a 42-seater at Rs 17,200. Additional charges will apply for distances beyond the set limit.
According to officials from the Bhagalpur Road Transport Corporation, the pricing structure is lower than prevailing private bus rates, making it an attractive option for middle-income households planning events or group travel.
Transport authorities believe the scheme could improve utilisation of the existing fleet while generating additional income for the Corporation, which has faced long-standing financial constraints. At the same time, it is expected to widen access to reliable transport services for the public, particularly in smaller towns and districts where private options can be limited or expensive.
