Patna: The Bihar government has launched a new bus service between Purnia Airport and Jogbani in a bid to strengthen regional connectivity and improve access for travellers from the Seemanchal region and the Nepal border.
The initiative, undertaken by the state transport department under the direction of the Bihar government, aims to provide more convenient and accessible surface transport for air passengers. Two buses began operating regularly on the Purnia Airport–Jogbani route on February 18.
Officials said two additional bus services are expected to be introduced soon. Online permit applications have been submitted to the Regional Transport Authority in Purnia, and further operations will begin once approvals are granted.
Nilesh Ramchandra Deore, secretary of the civil aviation department, described the move as a significant step towards connecting travellers from Seemanchal and neighbouring Nepal with other parts of the country. He said the state government was working to enhance passenger convenience and increase the utilisation of Purnia Airport.
The new bus service is expected to benefit passengers from districts including Araria and Forbesganj, besides Jogbani, by making air travel more accessible and reliable.
Purnia Airport currently offers two daily flights to Kolkata and regular direct services to Delhi, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad. Officials said the improved road connectivity would help the airport emerge as a key gateway for the Seemanchal region and parts of Nepal, supporting trade, tourism and investment.
Under the current schedule, flights arrive at Purnia Airport at 8.45am, 11.20am, 12.30pm, 12.50pm and 2.25pm, and depart at 9.30am, 12pm, 1.10pm, 1.50pm and 3.25pm.
From February 18, buses from Purnia Airport to Jogbani depart at 9.45am (BR01PH3569) and 2.45pm (BR01PH4371). On the return route, buses leave Jogbani at 6.30am (BR01PH4371) and 2.30pm (BR01PH3569).
Officials said the measure aligns with the state’s broader strategy of integrating regional airports with efficient road transport networks to stimulate socio-economic development.
