MP to Relaunch Bus Service on Deendayal's Anniversary

Officials Involved in the Briefing

Transport Secretary Manish Singh briefed him on the details of the event. Bhopal Municipal Commissioner Sanskriti Jain and officials of the concerned departments were present, reflecting the coordinated administrative effort behind the launch.

A Scheme Rooted in Antyodaya

The state government said the relaunch is inspired by Upadhyaya's philosophy of Antyodaya, aiming to provide affordable, safe and accessible transport to the rural and urban population, especially the last mile, directly tying the scheme's mission to the ideals commemorated on this particular anniversary.

Why the Service Was Discontinued

The Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation was closed in the early 2000s, leaving public transport largely dependent on private operators, a gap that has persisted for more than two decades until this relaunch.

A New Model for Public Transport

The new initiative seeks to bring back a regulated, technology-enabled and viable public transport system on a public-private partnership (PPP) model, combining state oversight with private sector involvement in an effort to ensure long-term sustainability.

Buses Launching Across Seven Cities

At the launch, 351 intercity and intracity buses from seven cities will be flagged off simultaneously. This includes 145 buses in Indore (50 intercity and 95 intracity), 106 buses in Bhopal (23 intercity and 83 intracity), 67 buses in Jabalpur (14 intercity and 53 intracity), 18 intercity buses in Rewa, 10 intercity buses in Dewas, three in Katni and two intercity buses in Bhind, giving the initial rollout a fairly wide geographic footprint across the state.

An Ambitious Long-Term Target

Under the Mukhyamantri Sugam Transport Service, the government has set a target of operating 15,000 buses by 2031, with 1,500 buses in the first year and the addition of 2,500 to 3,000 buses annually thereafter, outlining a clear, phased expansion plan for the service over the coming years.

Modern Features for Safety and Convenience

Buses will be equipped with modern amenities with the focus on safety and will have features like GPS, panic button, CCTV and digital ticketing, aligning the new service with contemporary standards for passenger safety and convenience.

Supporting the Private Partnership Model

A transparent contracting system and incentive schemes will be implemented to promote the PPP model. Private operators will be allowed to boost revenue through non-fare sources, like advertising and cargo services, and will get access to modern depot and terminal facilities, along with full administrative support for smooth operations, a comprehensive support structure designed to make private sector participation in the scheme financially viable over the long term while ensuring the service remains accessible and affordable for the public it is intended to serve.