As the festive season approaches, state transport corporations across India are ramping up bus services to accommodate the surge in travel demand for Diwali. Various states have announced extra buses to ensure that families can easily reunite during this auspicious time.
Extra Buses Launched To Facilitate Smoother Travel During Diwali
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) announced that it would operate 155 additional buses to control the surge in passenger traffic during Diwali festivities. To cater to growing demand, the services are starting on October 29. According to a report by The Times of India, HRTC is mostly running these extra buses between Delhi and bustling locations in Himachal Pradesh.
Among the new services, 60 buses will operate from Delhi, and 70 buses will run from Chandigarh on October 29 and 30. Passengers can choose between standard and luxury options, with tickets available online to facilitate advance bookings.
The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is preparing for a bustling travel period by introducing 2,000 extra buses from October 30 to November 1. Buses will depart from Kempegowda Bus Station in Bengaluru to various destinations, including Dharmastala, Mangaluru, and Hyderabad, as per the Deccan Herald reports. After Diwali, special buses will operate again on November 3 and 4 to facilitate return journeys.
Also Read: 8 Places In India To Witness The Magic Of Diwali!
States Step Up Transport Services
Maharashtra’s State Transport (ST) Corporation is similarly stepping up, with extra buses departing from Pune’s Swargate, Shivajinagar, Khadki, and Pimpri-Chinchwad depots. From October 25 to October 31, 97 buses will depart from the Khadki depot and 598 buses will depart Wakdewadi daily, serving 26 districts across the state, according to the Pune Mirror.
Special fares have incentivised travel, especially among women and senior citizens, who enjoy significant discounts. For example, passengers aged 75 and above travel free, while those between 65 and 70 receive a 50% fare reduction. Despite some overcrowding at depots and limited nighttime services, passengers are benefiting from the expanded options.
Also Read: This Is How Kartik Aaryan Celebrated Diwali As A Kid
According to Times of India, Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) has launched 130 new BS-VI standard buses as part of a fleet modernisation initiative. It will certainly enhance the travel experience for commuters. The addition of extra buses during Diwali will meet the heightened travel demand.
As travellers make their plans, the accessibility and comfort of these services will play a vital role in their celebrations.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
Inputs from Shreya Ghosh and Mallika Khurana
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