UP to link 12,200 villages by bus

Uttar Pradesh Transport Minister Daya Shankar Singh on Sunday announced that 12,200 villages currently without access to state roadways bus services will be connected with public transport within the next one year.

Speaking to PTI in Ballia, Singh said Uttar Pradesh is playing a leading role in the country’s transport sector. “The state is at the forefront in terms of transport policy. We are leading in issuing driving licences, and rank third in automated testing stations. In the next six months, we will also secure the top position in this area,” he said.

The minister informed that 23 bus stations across the state are being developed on the lines of airports, with significant progress already underway. He highlighted that nearly Rs 1,000 crore is being invested in the modernisation of the Lucknow bus terminal, while the under-construction Gomti Nagar bus station will be the most modern facility of its kind in the country. In addition, 54 more bus stations are slated for upgradation.

Expanding on the state’s push towards sustainable mobility, Singh said electric bus services, which so far have been confined to city routes, will soon cover inter-city routes and extend to rural areas. In the first phase, the service will be introduced in 45 districts, followed by expansion to all 75 districts in the second phase.

The minister also highlighted the integration of 1.5 lakh Jan Seva Kendras with the transport department, enabling villagers to access 49 transport-related services at just Rs 30, without visiting transport offices.

Singh noted that the state currently operates over 14,000 buses, with an average fleet age of 5.25 years, compared to 8,500 buses when he assumed office. He said this expansion has made Uttar Pradesh’s bus fleet among the best in the country.