The Delhi government is set to introduce direct luxury bus services to Bihar ahead of Chhath Puja 2026. The Transport Department has proposed the operation of over 50 air-conditioned buses to seven destinations in Bihar, pending final approval from Lieutenant Governor TS Sandhu. This initiative aims to facilitate travel for devotees during the festival.

Transport Minister Pankaj Singh announced that the proposal has been submitted for the Lieutenant Governor’s approval. The government is keen on launching these services before the Chhath festival, which is celebrated with great fervour in Bihar and among the Bihari diaspora. An agreement for interstate operations between the Delhi and Bihar governments has already been established.

Singh expressed optimism regarding the approval process, stating, “We have a target to launch these buses before the Chhath festival this year; these will be AC luxury buses, and initially we plan to roll out over 50 buses to seven locations in Bihar.”

Destinations and Bus Specifications

The proposed bus network will connect Delhi with major cities in Bihar, including Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur. The buses will be 12 metres long and comply with BS-VI emission standards, ensuring an environmentally friendly travel option. This initiative is particularly significant as it aims to improve travel options during the Chhath festival, a time when many people travel to their hometowns.

Electric buses have been deemed impractical for these long routes due to inadequate charging infrastructure. Therefore, the decision to utilise air-conditioned Volvo buses is seen as a necessary measure to accommodate the expected surge in passenger demand during the festival.

In addition to enhancing connectivity, the introduction of these buses is expected to provide a comfortable travel experience for passengers. The government aims to ensure that the services are reliable and efficient, catering to the needs of the travelling public during this festive season.

Operational Model and Future Expansion Plans

The operational model for these bus services will follow a wet-lease arrangement, whereby a private operator will manage the buses on behalf of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). This model is anticipated to improve connectivity while also contributing to the revenue of the DTC.

Further details regarding fare structures, departure points, booking methods, and the frequency of services are still under discussion. The Bihar initiative is part of a broader strategy for inter-state expansion, which may include additional routes to popular destinations such as Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Amritsar.

As preparations for Chhath Puja continue, the Delhi government is focused on ensuring that the transport services are ready to meet the needs of the public. The success of this initiative could pave the way for more extensive inter-state bus services in the future, enhancing travel options for residents and visitors alike.

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