Patna: More than 120 special and regular buses are being planned between Delhi and Bihar to meet increased travel demand during the upcoming Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath festivals.
According to the proposed plan, the additional services could begin operating from October. Booking is expected to start from September, while advance bookings for Dussehra special buses may open in the first week of October.
The proposed services are intended to provide an alternative for passengers facing heavy demand and long waiting lists on trains during the festive season.
Around 60 Special Buses Planned
Around 60 special diesel and CNG buses are proposed for the festive period.
According to the plan, the services may not be limited to Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath. Authorities are also considering continuing the operations as regular daily services throughout the year.
Delhi-Bihar Route Has Permit Quota for 432 Buses
A permit quota of 432 buses has been set for operations between Delhi and Bihar, according to information related to the proposed services.
The process for permits to increase the number of regular buses is under way. A proposal for additional special buses is also expected to be submitted to the government for approval.
The final number of buses and routes will be decided after the necessary approvals.
Four Luxury Buses Proposed From Patna
Officials of the Bihar Motor Transport Federation have said that four luxury buses are expected to begin services between Patna and Delhi in the coming month.
Private bus operators are also expected to operate around 30 additional buses during the festive season, providing passengers with more travel options between Delhi and Bihar.
Seating and Sleeper Options Expected
The proposed services are expected to include buses with capacities ranging from 42 to 56 seats.
Passengers may have a choice of seating and sleeper services, along with semi-sleeper deluxe, air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses.
The services are aimed primarily at long-distance passengers travelling between Delhi and different parts of Bihar.
Major Bihar Cities May Get Direct Connectivity
The buses are expected to travel through Uttar Pradesh and provide connections between Delhi and several major cities in Bihar.
The proposed network could include Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Purnia and Bhagalpur, offering passengers more direct travel options.
Depending on the destination and road conditions, travel time between Delhi and Bihar could range from around eight to 16 hours.
Alternative to Crowded Festival Trains
Passenger movement between Delhi and Bihar rises significantly during Dussehra, Diwali and Chhath as people travel home for the festivals.
The proposed additional bus services could provide an alternative to passengers unable to secure train tickets during periods of high demand.
Booking Expected to Begin Soon
Booking for the proposed services may begin in September, while advance booking for Dussehra special buses is expected to open in the first week of October.
The final schedule, routes and number of services are expected to be confirmed after the required government approvals.
If implemented as planned, the expanded bus network could help ease festive-season travel pressure while also strengthening year-round road connectivity between Delhi and Bihar.
