The Delhi government is preparing to introduce a major transport facility for passengers travelling to Bihar during the Chhath festival. Keeping the festive rush in mind, the government has proposed operating more than 50 air-conditioned luxury Volvo buses from Delhi to seven major cities in Bihar. The proposed service is expected to provide relief to passengers who struggle to secure train tickets during the festive season. According to available information, the Delhi and Bihar governments have reached an understanding regarding the service. However, the proposal is still awaiting final administrative approval before operations can begin.

Direct Bus Services Planned for Seven Cities
Under the first phase of the proposal, Delhi will be directly connected to seven major destinations in Bihar. These include Patna, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga, Purnia and Bhagalpur, along with another city. The Delhi Transport Department has reportedly forwarded the proposal to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu for final approval. Once permission is granted, the department will proceed with arrangements to launch the interstate bus service. The initiative is expected to offer passengers an additional travel option during the festive period.

Government Aims to Launch Service Before Chhath
Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said the government's objective is to start the bus service before this year's Chhath celebrations. An agreement between the Delhi and Bihar governments has reportedly been reached through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Necessary procedures for operating interstate buses between the two states are being taken forward. The government aims to provide passengers with a convenient and organised transport facility during the festival, when demand for travel to Bihar increases significantly.

AC Volvo Buses Planned for Long-Distance Travel
Considering the long distance between Delhi and Bihar, the government is initially planning to operate air-conditioned Volvo buses instead of electric buses. These vehicles are expected to offer comfortable seating and sufficient luggage space for passengers travelling over long distances. The proposed fleet of more than 50 buses will help increase transport capacity during the festive rush. The service could become an alternative for passengers who are unable to find confirmed railway reservations.

18 Routes Identified for Future Expansion
The Delhi Transport Department has reportedly identified a total of 18 routes for interstate bus operations between Delhi and Bihar. However, the initial phase will focus on direct connectivity to seven cities. Passenger demand, occupancy and operational requirements will be assessed before expanding the network. Additional routes may be introduced depending on the response to the service. If the proposal receives approval on time, thousands of Bihar-bound passengers living in Delhi could get another option to travel home for Chhath Puja.