PATIALA, April 6 — Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday initiated a significant expansion of the state’s public transport system, flagging off 250 new buses for the Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). The move comes as the corporation reports a 53 percent increase in gross revenue over the last four years, despite the continued provision of free travel for women.
The state’s transport strategy aims to modernize the existing fleet while addressing the growing demand for reliable transit in both urban and rural sectors. Official figures show that PRTC revenue rose from ₹607.09 crore in the 2021–22 fiscal year to ₹927.83 crore in 2024–25. Projections for the current financial year suggest that earnings will surpass ₹950 crore.
“Today in Patiala, 250 new buses were flagged off and added to the PRTC fleet,” Chief Minister Mann stated. “This is not merely an improvement in transport facilities, but a significant step towards providing people with better, safer and more comfortable travel.”
The Chief Minister affirmed that the expansion serves as a major engine for employment. The current induction, along with the planned arrival of 254 ordinary and 100 mini buses by the end of May 2026, is expected to generate 681 new jobs. Additionally, tenders have been issued for 309 more buses, which could create nearly 930 further positions.
“This will strengthen public transport and also create new employment opportunities for the youth,” the Chief Minister maintained.
The state’s welfare initiatives remain a central pillar of the transport model. Since 2022, women have utilized the free travel facility for 34.63 crore rides, a program valued at ₹1,574 crore. Furthermore, the Mukh Mantri Tirath Yatra scheme has provided free HVAC bus travel to over 9,500 passengers visiting religious sites.
“Our government is undertaking multi-dimensional development to restore Punjab to its former glory,” Mann declared. He noted that the broader infrastructure push includes approximately ₹400 crore spent on development works in the Patiala Rural constituency alone since assuming office.
The Chief Minister asserted that the rapid pace of development is designed to bridge historical gaps in public service. By aligning financial growth with expanded accessibility, the government aims to make public transport a self-reliant and efficient sector for all citizens.
