Mukhyamantri Sugam Parivahan Seva to start in MP from September 25: CM Mohan Yadav to flag off 351 buses; how transport sector will generate employment and investment opportunities
Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Government is taking a major step towards providing accessible, safe, modern and environment-friendly public transport facilities to citizens. At a state-level programme at BHEL Dussehra Maidan in Bhopal, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav will flag off 351 buses in the initial phase. The service aims to strengthen connectivity between cities, ease daily commuting and promote environment-friendly public transport. Around 1,500 buses will begin operations across the state in the initial phase.
Bus services to be launched in two categories
During the programme, 351 buses will be flagged off simultaneously. These will be divided into two categories. The 351 buses comprise 120 intercity buses, which will facilitate travel between two or more cities, and 231 intracity buses, which will provide safe, accessible and affordable transport within cities.
351 buses from seven cities to be flagged off
In the first phase of Mukhyamantri Sugam Parivahan Seva, buses from seven major cities of the state will be flagged off. These include Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Rewa, Dewas, Katni and Bhind. Indore will receive 145 buses, including 50 intercity and 95 intracity buses; Bhopal 106 buses, including 23 intercity and 83 intracity buses; and Jabalpur 67 buses, including 14 intercity and 53 intracity buses. In addition, 18 intercity buses in Rewa, 10 in Dewas, 3 in Katni and 2 in Bhind will also be flagged off.
Around 15,000 public buses to be operated
Under Mukhyamantri Sugam Parivahan Seva, 75% of gram panchayats will be connected by bus services by 2031, giving a major boost to rural connectivity. More than 15,000 modern public buses will be operated across the state. This will provide safe transportation facilities to more than 30 lakh passengers daily. Over 180 modern bus stands, terminals and depots will also be upgraded and renovated.
Special focus on electric buses
The state government will give special emphasis to the use of clean fuels and electric buses to protect the environment and reduce carbon emissions.
Monitoring through ITMS
Buses operating under Mukhyamantri Sugam Parivahan Seva will be monitored through an Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS).
Special priority has also been accorded to the safety of women and children on public buses, making passenger transport more secure, accessible, transparent and efficient.
All buses are being equipped with seven CCTV cameras, panic buttons and real-time vehicle location tracking systems. In addition, passenger information systems, technical training for drivers and a prompt grievance redressal mechanism will help ensure safe and timely travel.
Strong participation of private operators through PPP model
To strengthen public-private participation, transparent contracting and incentive mechanisms will be introduced. Under this model, the state government will support private bus operators through measures to prevent revenue leakage, increase non-fare revenue from advertising and cargo services, facilitate access to modern depots and terminals, and provide necessary administrative support.
Transport sector to generate employment and investment opportunities
The launch of Mukhyamantri Sugam Parivahan Seva is expected to boost employment and investment in the transport sector. Expansion of passenger transport services will create greater opportunities for investment in bus operations, vehicle manufacturing, electric mobility, charging infrastructure, technical services and other allied sectors. This will provide a boost to transport-related industries while creating new opportunities for employment and self-employment for the youth.