Lucknow, March 25: The Uttar Pradesh government has made a significant move to enhance rural connectivity. Through the ‘Chief Minister’s Village Transport Scheme, 2026,’ bus services will reach over 12,000 villages that currently lack public transport. This initiative is not just about roads or buses; it aims to connect villages with education, healthcare, employment, and markets.
Launched from Lucknow, the government has clarified that development now means ensuring regular and reliable transport, not just building roads. In 2011-12, household expenditure on rural transport was 4.2%, which increased to 7.5% by 2022-23, indicating changing priorities.
The government emphasizes the mantra ‘Less noise, more work’ to ensure services reach the last person. An official from the department revealed that the plan aims to connect over 59,000 village councils. Notably, around 5,000 villages, where large buses cannot reach, will have smaller buses with a capacity of up to 28 seats. Each village council will have bus services at least twice a day, starting from 10 AM and returning by 8 PM.
Initially, permits will be granted for ten years, with the possibility of extension. This scheme will also open new employment opportunities for rural youth. Bus drivers and support staff will be recruited locally. Additionally, private operators will be incentivized with tax exemptions and permit relief to strengthen the transport system and boost the rural economy.
Committees chaired by district magistrates will be formed to oversee effective implementation, including fare determination and service monitoring. Buses must return to villages by night to maintain service regularity. This initiative will directly benefit approximately 15 million students, making it easier for them to reach schools and colleges, which is expected to reduce dropout rates.
Moreover, rural families will be relieved from expensive and unreliable transport options, thus lowering their transport costs. In conclusion, the ‘Chief Minister’s Village Transport Scheme, 2026’ is not just a transport initiative but a significant step towards connecting villages with opportunities. The Yogi government has made it clear that true development is measured by its reach to the last person, and this time, the path is being paved through bus services to every village.
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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