Punjab Newsline,Chandigarh :
Government to Procure BS-VI Mini Buses through PRTC, Pre-Bid Meeting on January 23
The Punjab government is set to strengthen the public transport system by introducing mini buses connecting cities with villages across the state. In this direction, the government has decided to purchase 100 new mini buses and has already issued tenders through the Pepsu Road Transport Corporation (PRTC). The initiative aims to make travel easier, safer, and more affordable for people, especially in rural areas.
According to official sources, if the tender process is completed on schedule, the new mini buses are expected to start operating on Punjab roads by the end of February or in early March. As part of the tender process, a pre-bid meeting for interested companies will be held on January 23. After this, financial bids will be invited and the final decision will be taken.
All the proposed mini buses will comply with BS-VI emission norms, making them environment-friendly. These will be city/urban category buses (OBDA type), specifically designed for short and medium routes connecting rural and urban areas. The government believes that the induction of BS-VI buses will help reduce pollution while improving the quality of public transport services.
The project is also expected to generate new employment opportunities. Jobs will be created in bus operations, maintenance, and allied services, benefiting local youth. At the same time, residents of villages will find it easier to commute to nearby towns and cities for education, healthcare, and employment.
It is noteworthy that about a month ago, the Punjab government had issued permits to 505 mini bus operators. As per government norms, each mini bus will cover 5 to 6 villages, operating on a route of around 35 kilometers. In addition, nearly 19,000 kilometers of roads are proposed to be developed in rural areas. Overall, this initiative is being seen as a major step toward strengthening Punjab’s rural transport infrastructure and improving connectivity between villages and cities.