Kolkata increases bus services to 4,198 daily trips to alleviate commuter strain

The West Bengal government is enhancing its public transportation system by increasing the number of government buses in Kolkata starting Monday. The current fleet of 550 buses runs 3,300 daily trips across Kolkata and its suburbs. This number will rise to 4,198 daily trips with the addition of more buses, aimed at meeting the growing demand for public transport in the city and surrounding areas.

Among the notable changes, the New Town area will see its daily bus trips increase from 108 to 156. In South Kolkata, areas such as Rashbehari, Gariahat, Kalighat, Alipore, and Exide will see a total of 24 additional special trips. The government has also focused on several key routes: Hatisala-Hooghly, Sapurji-Hooghly, and Dumdum Station-Karunamoyee, with an increase in the number of buses on each route. The Hatisala-Hooghly route will see an increase from 3 to 5 buses, while the Sapurji-Hooghly route will expand from 3 to 12 buses. Additionally, the Dumdum Station-Karunamoyee route will increase from 6 to 8 buses.

To support the expanded services, the state transport department is also addressing the challenge of an insufficient number of bus drivers, as many are approaching retirement. The department has submitted a request for additional drivers to help operate the new buses. As part of the broader plan to ensure efficient service, surprise ticket checks will also be conducted on buses to monitor ticket compliance. The transportation department is working to manage the increased bus fleet and improve the commuting experience for passengers.