Punjab Government Adds 1,279 Buses to Fleet

The Punjab government has approved a major expansion of its public transport network, introducing 1,279 new buses to strengthen connectivity across the state. The expansion targets improved rural-urban transport links, reduced route gaps, and enhanced reliability for government-run bus services under Punjab State Bus Stand Management Company Limited (PUNBUS) and Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC).

Currently, the state operates 2,267 buses, with 1,119 managed by PUNBUS. The new plan will increase the fleet through a combination of direct procurement and the kilometre scheme, allowing efficient scaling while managing operational costs. Under the initiative, 796 buses will be purchased directly, while 483 will be inducted via the kilometre scheme.

Of the directly procured buses, 696 will be ordinary models and 100 midi buses. PUNBUS will receive 387 ordinary buses, while PRTC will be allotted 309 ordinary buses along with 100 midi buses. Midi buses are designed for congested urban areas and interior rural routes where larger vehicles face operational challenges. Officials expect these smaller buses to significantly improve service in towns and villages with limited public transport options.

All newly procured ordinary buses will comply with AIS-153 safety standards, featuring enhanced accessibility for passengers with partial disabilities, wheelchair access, and reduced noise and vibration levels. Additional safety and comfort features include improved driving ergonomics, fire detection systems, emergency signage, GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, LED lighting, and night lamps, particularly beneficial for night travel.

The kilometre scheme will further bolster the fleet, with PUNBUS adding 100 HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) buses, 100 ordinary buses, and additional Volvo buses. The HVAC buses will meet Bharat Stage VI emission standards, promoting cleaner air and environmentally friendly travel. PRTC will add 254 ordinary buses and 14 integral coach buses under the same scheme.

Overall, PRTC will receive 670 new buses, while PUNBUS will induct 602 buses, raising its total fleet to 1,721 buses. The government has stated that the rollout will occur in phases starting March, ensuring existing services remain uninterrupted during the expansion.

This large-scale upgrade reflects Punjab’s commitment to modernizing its public transport system, improving passenger safety, and enhancing travel options across both urban centres and remote regions.