The Delhi government is preparing to expand its bus network to major religious destinations across North India to help devotees travel easily. Transport Minister Pankaj Singh announced that the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will soon operate high-quality AC buses to Vaishno Devi in Katra, Khatu Shyam in Rajasthan, and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh. This move aims to provide affordable and safe travel options for thousands of pilgrims who travel from the national capital to these holy sites every month.
What are the new routes and bus features?
Under this new plan, around 50 air-conditioned buses will be deployed on 17 different interstate routes. These 12-meter long buses are designed to be environment-friendly and comfortable for long-distance travel. Apart from the famous religious shrines, the service will also strengthen connectivity to several neighboring cities. The government has already started electric bus services on routes like Sonepat, Panipat, and Dharuhera, and the new plan will add more destinations to the list.
- Religious Destinations: Vaishno Devi (Katra), Khatu Shyam, and Ayodhya.
- Interstate Routes: Rewari, Karnal, Rohtak, Alwar, and Jewar.
- Existing E-Bus Routes: Baraut, Sonipat, Dharuhera, and Panipat.
- Bus Type: 12-meter long AC buses with modern safety features.
Important details about fares and Bihar connectivity
The fares for these new interstate services will be decided based on the benchmark rates set by the Association of State Road Transport Undertakings (ASRTU). While the specific prices for each route have not been announced yet, they are expected to be pocket-friendly for the common man. Additionally, the government is currently working on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bihar government to start direct bus services. This initiative is specifically aimed at helping the large Purvanchal community living in Delhi to travel to their home state more conveniently.
