In a major step towards strengthening public transport connectivity, the Governments of Haryana and Bihar on Friday signed a bilateral Inter-State Bus Transport Agreement to commence regular bus services between the two states.The agreement was signed on behalf of the Haryana Government by Additional Chief Secretary, Transport Department, Mr. Raja Sekhar Vundru and on behalf of the Bihar Government by Mr. Arif Ahsan, State Transport Commissioner.
Haryana Transport Commissioner, Atul Kumar and Administrator of the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation, Mr. Atul Kumar Verma, was also present on the occasion.The agreement provides for the operation of regular inter-state bus services, offering passengers a safe, comfortable, reliable and affordable mode of public transport.
Under the agreement, modern air-conditioned buses will operate on scheduled routes connecting Haryana's key cities, including Gurugram, Ambala, Sonipat and Panipat, with six divisions of Bihar Patna, Purnia, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga and Bhagalpur. The services will run according to a fixed timetable to ensure dependable and timely transportation.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Raja Sekhar Vundru said the agreement marks a significant milestone in expanding Haryana's inter-state public transport network. He said the new services would provide passengers with high-quality AC bus travel at affordable fares while reducing dependence on private transport.
He added that the Haryana Government is committed to connecting the state with major parts of the country through well-planned and efficient public transport services so that citizens can enjoy safe, convenient and economical travel.
Mr. Raja Sekhar Vundru said that Haryana is one of India's leading industrial and employment-generating states. Cities such as Gurugram, Sonipat, Panipat and Ambala are home to a large number of people from Bihar working in industries, private companies, construction, the service sector, trade and other businesses. Besides them, students, traders and other travellers frequently commute between the two states.
He expressed confidence that the new inter-state bus service would not only improve passenger convenience but also strengthen economic, industrial, educational and social ties between Haryana and Bihar. Improved connectivity is expected to facilitate trade, enhance access to employment opportunities, encourage investment and tourism, and further deepen cooperation between the two states through a dependable public transport network.