Delhi and Bihar have launched 77 inter-state buses from Anand Vihar Bus Terminal to help passengers travel home for Chhath at subsidised fares, with services connecting five Bihar divisions and offering both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options.
The arrangement was announced by Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh, who said the services were introduced through a Memorandum of Understanding approved by the two state governments. The buses are intended to support residents of Bihar and Poorvanchal living in Delhi during the seasonal travel rush.
“Chhath Puja holds immense cultural and emotional significance for lakhs of people from Bihar and Poorvanchal residing in Delhi,” Singh said. He added that the governments were working together to help passengers travel safely and affordably, describing the additional services and subsidised fares as a step towards improving access to public transport during the festival.
The 77 buses will serve five Bihar divisions. Muzaffarpur will receive the largest allocation with 36 buses, followed by Patna with 13, Purnea with 12, Gaya Ji with 10 and Darbhanga with six buses.
Passengers will be able to choose from non-AC seater, non-AC sleeper, AC seater and AC sleeper services. According to the minister, festival fare reductions will range from Rs 134 to Rs 1,028, depending on the route and the category of bus selected.
The initiative comes as Delhi’s transport network faces increased demand from passengers travelling to Bihar for Chhath. By adding inter-state services at Anand Vihar, the arrangement provides an organised public transport option for travellers who may otherwise depend on limited or higher-priced services during the festive period.
Officials said the programme could also increase revenue for the Delhi Transport Corporation. The agreement provides for mutual recognition of tickets issued in Delhi and Bihar, allowing tickets purchased in either state to be accepted under the arrangement.
The participating services will have to meet specified operational and safety conditions. Officials said only BS-VI compliant CNG buses and electric buses would be permitted. The buses will also be required to have vehicle location-tracking devices and emergency buttons.
The agreement is valid for 10 years, subject to applicable legal provisions. The two governments have described the arrangement as a measure to strengthen interstate public transport connectivity while easing the festive travel rush. The immediate services are being operated from Anand Vihar across the five identified Bihar divisions.
