Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced major development initiatives during his visit to Patiala, offering significant benefits to residents of the state. On the occasion, he flagged off 250 new government buses added to the fleet of the Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation (PRTC), a move expected to strengthen public transportation services across Punjab.
The Chief Minister stated that the government’s primary objective is to provide citizens with safer, more comfortable, and efficient travel facilities. With the addition of new buses, connectivity between rural and urban areas is expected to improve, ensuring convenient travel options for passengers.
Mann also revealed that this expansion is only the beginning of a larger plan. The government aims to add a total of 606 buses to the Punbus fleet. Under this plan, 387 buses will be directly purchased, while 254 buses will be introduced under the kilometer scheme. The fleet will include Volvo, HVAC-equipped, and standard buses to cater to different travel needs.
Additionally, the government has invested approximately ₹125 crore for the procurement of 100 mini buses. The long-term goal is to introduce more than 1,000 new buses on Punjab roads to further strengthen the public transport system.
During the visit, the Chief Minister also inaugurated and laid the foundation for various development projects worth ₹142 crore in Patiala, aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and public facilities.
Another major highlight of the event was the inauguration of Phase One of the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University. Mann said the university would open new opportunities for athletes in the state and promote sports development at a higher level.
Addressing a public gathering at Dana Mandi in Patiala, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government remains committed to public welfare and continuous development. He added that more significant decisions would be announced in the coming months to accelerate Punjab’s progress.
The government’s focus on transport modernization and infrastructure development is expected to deliver direct benefits to citizens and reshape the state’s growth trajectory in the coming years.
