Transport Department Targets Revival of Government Bus Services Across Bengal

Kolkata: West Bengal Transport Minister Arjun Singh has outlined an ambitious plan to revive the state’s struggling public transport system, stating that the department is focused on restoring government bus services and ensuring that welfare initiatives such as free travel for women reach the intended beneficiaries.

Speaking on the challenges facing the department, Singh said the transport network is currently suffering from a shortage of buses, drivers, conductors and helpers. According to him, nearly half of the state’s government bus fleet remains idle in garages, while many operational buses cannot be deployed due to a lack of drivers.

The minister claimed that the newly formed government has already identified the root causes behind the transport crisis within days of assuming office. He alleged the existence of a nexus that has discouraged the operation of government buses, allowing private buses and smaller vehicles to dominate the market.

Highlighting the importance of public transport in implementing welfare schemes, Singh noted that the state’s free bus travel initiative for women can only succeed if sufficient buses are available on the roads. He said the process of bringing idle buses back into service has already begun and that the department is working to convert existing shortcomings into long-term improvements.

Acknowledging the difficult circumstances inherited by the administration, Singh expressed confidence that the situation can be reversed through decisive action and administrative reforms. He emphasized that the government is committed to strengthening public transport infrastructure and improving commuter services across the state.

The minister also credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, expressing confidence that the transport department will be brought back on track in the near future.

The government is expected to focus on fleet utilization, recruitment of drivers and support staff, and improving the overall efficiency of the state’s transport system as part of its revival strategy.