Phase Two of Women’s Pink Bus Project
This expansion builds upon the initiative launched earlier this year on May 16, when 20 pink buses were flagged off. Of these, Patna received eight, while Muzaffarpur, Gaya, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, and Purnia received allocations as well. In just two months, nearly 33,000 women passengers used these buses, with Patna accounting for 21,000 riders.
Officials highlighted the popularity of the service, particularly among working women and college students. The demand prompted the government to expand the fleet significantly in this second phase.
The new fleet runs on eco-friendly CNG fuel, underlining the government’s push for sustainable mobility. While the buses are painted pink, the conductors and other onboard staff wear pink uniforms, creating a distinctive and women-friendly travel environment. Drivers remain male as the state currently lacks trained women heavy vehicle operators.
Each bus is fitted with digital fare meters to ensure transparency. Officials confirmed that the security upgrades, including panic buttons connected to control rooms, aim to make travel safer for women across Bihar.
Political and Administrative Backing
The launch event was held near the CM’s official residence at 1, Anne Marg, Patna. Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with senior bureaucrats including Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit and Transport Commissioner Ashutosh Trivedi, were present.
Nitish Kumar inspected the buses before the launch and interacted with officials regarding their facilities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and safe public transport.
Women’s Empowerment Through Mobility
The initiative is part of Bihar’s broader agenda to strengthen women’s rights and opportunities. By offering secure, reliable, and affordable transportation, the state hopes to boost women’s participation in education, jobs, and public life.
According to government data, more than one-third of urban women in Bihar rely on public transport daily. Initiatives like these could significantly reduce safety concerns and improve access to mobility for thousands.
Similar efforts have been rolled out in states like Delhi, where free travel for women in buses has been implemented, and in government-supported programs nationwide focusing on women’s empowerment.