Punjab To Strengthen Public Transport Network, Govt Approves Addition Of Over 1,200 Buses

Last Updated:January 13, 2026, 21:29 IST

The state government said that the expansion aims to make public transport more affordable, reliable and accessible, particularly for residents of underserved villages and towns.

At present, the state operates 2,267 buses through PUNBUS. (File image)

Punjab’s public transport network is set to undergo a major expansion, with the Bhagwant Singh Mann-led government approving the addition of 1,279 buses to the state-run fleet to strengthen last-mile connectivity across urban and rural areas.

At present, the state operates 2,267 buses through PUNBUS (Punjab State Bus Stand Management Company Limited) and the Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). Of the total new buses approved, 796 will be procured directly, while 483 will be inducted under the kilometre scheme to ensure faster deployment and operational flexibility.

As part of the expansion, 696 ordinary buses and 100 midi buses will be purchased. PUNBUS will receive 387 ordinary buses, while PRTC will be strengthened with 309 ordinary buses. In addition, PRTC will get 100 midi buses aimed at improving connectivity in cities, small towns and rural routes where large buses are not feasible.

The government said that all newly procured ordinary buses will comply with AIS-153 standards and would include improved safety and accessibility features such as wheelchair-friendly access, fire detection systems, GPS tracking, CCTV cameras, emergency signage and better lighting, particularly for night travel.

Under the kilometre scheme, PUNBUS will add Volvo buses, 100 HVAC buses compliant with Bharat Stage VI emission norms, and 100 ordinary buses, taking its total fleet strength to 1,721. PRTC will induct 254 ordinary buses and 14 integral coach buses under the same scheme.

Overall, PRTC will receive 670 new buses, while 602 buses will be added to the PUNBUS fleet. The induction of buses is expected to begin from March and will take place in phases to ensure smooth integration into existing services.

The state government said that the expansion aims to make public transport more affordable, reliable and accessible, particularly for residents of underserved villages and towns, while also improving safety and environmental standards.

News india Punjab To Strengthen Public Transport Network, Govt Approves Addition Of Over 1,200 Buses

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