May 17, Saturday
The Chhattisgarh government has launched the “Mukhyamantri Gramin Bus Sewa Yojana” (Chief Minister Rural Bus Service Scheme) to enhance transportation facilities in remote and rural areas, particularly benefiting regions like Bastar and Surguja. Approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between villages and cities, ensuring safe and more accessible travel for rural residents.
The scheme permits the operation of light and medium passenger vehicles with seating capacities ranging from 18 to 42 seats (excluding the driver). State and district-level committees will identify new rural routes for these services.
Priority will be given to local residents of Chhattisgarh, especially those belonging to Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, women, and individuals affected by Naxalism. Beneficiaries will be selected through a transparent tender process. Vehicle owners operating under this scheme will receive a full exemption from monthly taxes for up to three years from the date of the first permit issuance.
The state government will provide financial support to operators at the following rates: ₹26 per kilometer in the first year, ₹24 in the second year, and ₹22 in the third year. Special categories such as visually impaired individuals, those with intellectual disabilities, persons unable to walk, senior citizens aged 80 and above, and individuals living with AIDS will receive full fare exemptions along with one attendant. Additionally, individuals from Naxal-affected areas will be eligible for a 50% fare concession.
In its initial phase, the scheme will introduce bus services on approximately 100 designated rural routes across the state. A budget allocation of ₹25 crore has been set aside for the implementation of this initiative.e
This scheme is expected to significantly benefit farmers, laborers, students, small traders, and rural residents by improving access to district, tehsil, and block headquarters. Enhanced connectivity will facilitate better access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, thereby contributing to the overall development of rural areas in Chhattisgarh. Keep Reading Questiqa.in for more news.
