In a major festive gesture for Rakshabandhan, a special concession has been announced to ease travel for women across the region on 27 and 28 August. Female passengers will be able to travel free of charge on state transport buses during these two days, helping them meet their brothers without worrying about ticket costs. The administration introduced this initiative to reduce the financial strain on families and ensure safe, convenient journeys during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Two Days of Zero-Fare Bus Travel for Women
Rakshabandhan sees millions of women journeying across cities and rural areas to tie rakhi on their brothers' wrists. However, intense festival crowds paired with rising travel expenses often create significant hurdles for commuters. To address these difficulties, authorities have waived bus fares for female passengers for a 48-hour period covering 27 August and 28 August. Under this arrangement, women can board designated state buses across all operational routes without purchasing tickets. This move provides direct economic relief to thousands of sisters planning inter-district journeys over the festive period.
Fleet of 63 Buses Deployed in Purnia Division
While the zero-fare facility spans key regions statewide from the capital Patna, localized arrangements have been established in Purnia to handle the expected surge in passenger volume. Within the Purnia division, a dedicated fleet of 63 buses will operate across all scheduled routes to provide free transit for women. Ajitabh Anand, Regional Manager of the Purnia Division of the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation, confirmed that these services are being rolled out following official government directives. He emphasized that the regional transport management has aligned all 63 buses to maintain frequency and smooth connectivity for female passengers throughout both days.
Detailed Route Coverage Across Purnia and Nearby Towns
According to the official schedule issued by the transport department, free travel benefits apply across multiple transit corridors radiating from Purnia. Female passengers traveling on any bus operating along the Purnia to Katihar route will enjoy complete fare exemption. Furthermore, the waiver extends to services connecting Purnia with Gedabari, Kursela, Naugachhia, Pawai, Dumar, Zero Mile, and Bhagalpur.
Additionally, women traveling along the routes connecting Purnia with Baisi, Amour, and Rauta can ride without paying any fare. The exemption also covers state-run buses plying between Purnia, Rupauli, and Dhamdaha. In total, all 63 buses under the jurisdiction of the Purnia division will offer free rides across these specified sectors on 27 and 28 August, ensuring comprehensive regional coverage.
Economic Relief and Safe Commuting Experience
Navigating festive rush hours frequently forces commuters to spend heavily on private transport options. By eliminating bus fares for two full days, the state transport network offers a reliable and budget-friendly alternative for women travelers. In addition to financial savings, state-managed buses provide a secure environment for women traveling alone or with children. This administrative intervention ensures that Rakshabandhan remains a hassle-free, memorable, and celebratory occasion for sisters traveling across the region.
