LUCKNOW: In a bid to ensure smooth and safe travel during the vibrant Holi festival, the Uttar Pradesh government under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has rolled out comprehensive arrangements. Starting February 28 and continuing through March 9, additional buses will ply across key routes to accommodate the surge in passengers heading home for celebrations.
Transport Minister of State Dayashankar Singh highlighted that regions like Delhi, Ghaziabad, and western UP witness the heaviest rush. ‘We’ve prepositioned ample buses and staff in these high-demand areas,’ he stated. If initial boarding points achieve 60% capacity, extra services will extend to other parts of the state.
Emphasizing 100% uptime for corporation buses, Singh directed no leaves for contract bus crew during the period. Vehicle owners must complete repairs promptly to keep fleets road-ready. Safety remains paramount, with strict orders to manage traffic jams and accidents swiftly. Enforcement teams will maintain round-the-clock vigilance, mandating breathalyzer tests for all drivers and conductors.
Buses will undergo rigorous checks for mechanical fitness, intact seats, functional windows, and fire safety gear. Cleanliness at depots and onboard will be non-negotiable. To motivate excellence, outstanding drivers and conductors— including contractual staff—stand to earn incentives from Rs 3,600 to Rs 4,500 over the 10-day span.
Daily operations averaging 300 km fetch Rs 360 per day, totaling Rs 3,600. Full 10-day duty with standards met yields Rs 4,500 at Rs 450 daily, plus 55 paise per extra km. Workshop and depot staff get lump sums: Rs 2,100 for 10 days, Rs 1,800 for nine. Top performers, recommended by regional committees, could receive bonus rewards.
The three top-performing regions’ managers and ten standout depots’ assistant managers will be honored with commendation certificates. This proactive strategy underscores the Yogi administration’s commitment to festive travel without hitches, blending efficiency with passenger welfare.