The Delhi government is considering the launch of special interstate bus services to Bihar ahead of the Diwali and Chhath Puja travel rush. The proposed services are aimed at helping thousands of people travelling from Delhi to their hometowns during the festive season.
The government has identified 18 possible routes between Delhi and different parts of Bihar. However, instead of starting all the routes at once, the initial plan is likely to cover two or three routes. The final selection of routes and fares will be made after a committee submits its report on the proposal.
Delhi to Bihar Bus Services May Begin Before Chhath
The proposed bus services could provide an additional travel option for passengers heading towards Bihar during the peak festive period. At present, private buses operate on several Delhi-Bihar routes, but government-operated buses are not available on these routes.
The Delhi government is considering allowing private bus operators to run the proposed services under a set of prescribed rules and conditions.
The plan has been under discussion for several months. In August, the Transport Department released a draft mutual transport agreement between Delhi and Bihar. The draft identified 18 routes connecting the national capital with major Bihar destinations, including Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur and Purnia.
Proposed Routes Will Also Cover Uttar Pradesh
Since buses travelling between Delhi and Bihar will pass through Uttar Pradesh, several proposed routes could also cover important cities in the state. These include Noida, Agra, Kanpur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, Varanasi and Gorakhpur.
The Delhi government is also working separately on plans to improve interstate bus connectivity with eastern Uttar Pradesh.
The initial proposal had considered operating more than 50 buses to Bihar during Chhath Puja. However, the government is now expected to begin with just two or three routes and gradually expand the service to additional destinations based on demand and operational requirements.
BS-VI, CNG and Electric Buses Under Consideration
The proposed Delhi-Bihar mutual transport agreement is expected to remain valid for 10 years. Under the draft arrangement, diesel buses operating on these routes would need to meet BS-VI or higher emission standards.
CNG and electric buses would also be eligible to operate under the proposed arrangement. Passenger safety requirements are expected to include vehicle-tracking systems and emergency buttons.
The government has not yet finalised the exact routes, ticket fares, number of buses or other operational details. The committee’s report will play a key role in determining how the service is introduced.
The proposed festival special bus services could be launched before Diwali and Chhath Puja if the remaining approvals and planning are completed on time. Further details are expected once the committee submits its recommendations.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available regarding the proposed interstate bus service plan. Routes, fares, bus numbers and other operational details may change before the final announcement. Passengers should check official government or transport department updates before planning their journey.