Delhi and Bihar launch 77 inter-state buses with reduced fares for Chhath Puja
Passengers travelling from Delhi to Bihar can receive fare discounts of up to Rs 1,028 on new inter-state bus services.
The Delhi and Bihar governments have launched 77 inter-state bus services to assist passengers travelling for Chhath Puja, according to reports by Urban Acres, The Times of India and Moneycontrol. The services, which operate on 18 routes, aim to provide affordable travel for residents of Bihar and Poorvanchal living in Delhi.
Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said on Thursday that the initiative is intended to make public transport more accessible during the festival. He stated that the government is working with Bihar to ensure passengers can travel home safely and affordably due to the cultural significance of the festival.
The 77 buses will operate from the Anand Vihar Bus Terminal and connect five Bihar divisions. Muzaffarpur will receive 36 buses, followed by Patna with 13, Purnea with 12, Gaya Ji with 10, and Darbhanga with six.
Subsidised fares are available across four categories: non-AC seater, non-AC sleeper, AC seater, and AC sleeper. Depending on the route and bus type, passengers will receive reductions ranging from Rs 134 to Rs 1,028. For example, on the Delhi-Patna route, the non-AC seater fare has been reduced from Rs 1,615 to Rs 1,221.
Only BS-VI compliant CNG and electric buses are permitted to operate, and they must be equipped with emergency buttons and location-tracking devices. The agreement, which includes mutual recognition of tickets issued in either state, will remain valid for 10 years.
Additionally, the Northern Railway has expanded services with special trains operating from New Delhi, Anand Vihar, Shakurbasti, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Delhi Junction, and Rohtak to manage the festive travel demand.