CM flags off pink buses to boost women’s safety

Patna: CM Nitish Kumar on Friday flagged off 20 pink buses operated by the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) to ensure a safe and comfortable commute for women in the state capital.In addition, the CM also launched 166 deluxe buses under the BSRTC fleet to improve public transport services in various districts."The CM inspected the buses and inquired about the facilities before flagging them off. This is an important step taken by the state govt towards women's empowerment, under which 20 pink buses have now started operating. This will make the journey of women safe and comfortable," said a communique issued by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).An official said, "Currently, five routes have been designated for the pink buses in the state capital. Services will run from 6am to 8pm. Woman students can get a monthly pass for Rs 400 while working women can avail one for Rs 550. The fare will range from a minimum of Rs 6 to a maximum of Rs 25.""All 20 pink buses are powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) and will operate exclusively in Patna. In the second phase, we will extend the service to other districts," the official added.Transport minister Sheela Kumari said the govt plans to introduce pink buses across the entire state. "The BSRTC has purchased 20 buses in the first phase. An additional 80 buses will be procured in the second phase," she said.Deputy CMs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with transport minister Sheela Kumari, parliamentary affairs minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary and several senior officials were present at the flagging-off ceremony held at the CM's official residence.