Private infrastructure companies are likely to invest ₹1,100 crore in the second phase of the ongoing Mukhyamantri Gram Parivahan Yojana to develop a network of modern bus stations in Uttar Pradesh. According to reports from UPSRTC officials, the state has floated fresh tenders for 18 modern bus terminals across Amethi, Pilibhit, Gonda, Balrampur, and Unnao districts. The proposed bus stations will be equipped with modern passenger amenities while also accelerating economic and commercial activities in the respective cities and towns.
The Yogi Adityanath-led state government is aggressively promoting electric mobility to curb air pollution, as reported by state transport minister Daya Shankar Singh. Electric buses are currently operating in 43 districts, with services planned to extend to all 75 districts in due course. Charging stations are being set up in major cities while charging infrastructure is being developed at bus depots, bus stations, and petrol pumps. Operating an electric bus costs only a fraction of that of a diesel bus, making electric buses environmentally and economically sustainable despite higher upfront purchase costs.
UP also tops the national chart in terms of the highest number of electric vehicles across segments -- two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and buses. The state has expanded its fleet from 8,500 buses to over 14,500 across variants. According to Singh, every UPSRTC bus has been equipped with GPS tracking and panic buttons to enhance passenger safety, particularly for women. Under the Mukhyamantri Gram Parivahan Yojana, the state aims to connect 12,200 villages with blocks, tehsils, and district headquarters through regular bus services, with around 1,100 buses already operating and plans to add 10,000 more.
With a concession period of up to 90 years, the scheme entails private investments beyond the transport sector into retail, hotels, food courts, office spaces, multiplexes, and other commercial spaces, which augments the viability of the scheme. The modern bus terminals will not only serve as transportation hubs but also contribute to commercial development in the respective cities and towns, as reported by UPSRTC officials.
