A new chapter in passenger transport in Madhya Pradesh will begin on September 25, with the state set to launch the Chief Minister Sugam Transport Service aimed at improving bus connectivity between rural and urban areas.

State Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will jointly flag off 351 intercity and intracity buses from seven cities at a state-level programme at the BHEL Dussehra Maidan in Bhopal.

The initiative seeks to provide commuters with convenient, safe, modern and environmentally friendly public transport while strengthening connectivity between villages and cities across the state.

351 buses to hit the roads

Under the first phase, buses will be rolled out in Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Rewa, Dewas, Katni and Bhind.

Indore will receive the largest fleet, with 145 buses, including 50 intercity and 95 intracity buses. Bhopal will have 106 buses, comprising 23 intercity and 83 intracity services.

Jabalpur will get 67 buses, including 14 intercity and 53 intracity buses. Rewa will have 18 intercity buses, while Dewas will receive 10. Katni and Bhind will have three and two intercity buses, respectively.

The state government plans to eventually extend the service to 75 per cent of gram panchayats, with the aim of improving public transport access in rural as well as urban areas.

15,000 buses targeted by 2031

The government has set a target of operating 15,000 buses across Madhya Pradesh by 2031. The first-year target is 1,500 buses, after which around 2,500 to 3,000 buses are expected to be added every year.

The service will operate under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with modern buses and enhanced safety features. To encourage private participation, the government plans to introduce transparent contractual arrangements and incentive schemes.

Private bus operators will also have opportunities to generate additional income through non-fare revenue streams, including advertising and cargo services, while using modern depots and terminal facilities. The administration will provide support to operators to ensure efficient and smooth bus operations.

Technology-driven safety and monitoring

The new service will use an Intelligent Transport Management System to enable real-time monitoring of bus operations, locations and punctuality.

Command-and-control centres have been established under Madhya Pradesh Yatri Parivahan Infrastructure Limited and its seven subsidiary companies to oversee the fleet.

Passenger safety, particularly that of women and children, has been given priority. Every bus will be equipped with CCTV cameras, while panic buttons will allow passengers to seek immediate assistance during emergencies. Each bus will also have a Vehicle Location Tracking Device to provide live location information. Passenger Information Systems will offer commuters essential details related to bus operations and their journeys.

Drivers will receive technical training aligned with modern technology and safe traffic management practices. The government also plans to establish an effective grievance-redressal mechanism for the prompt resolution of passenger complaints.

Through the combination of modern technology, surveillance and safety systems, the state government aims to provide passengers with a more secure, convenient, transparent and punctual transport service.