In a landmark initiative aimed at empowering women and enhancing their safety in public transportation, SMLI has partnered with the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) to introduce a dedicated fleet of 20 women-only ‘Pink Buses’.
The initiative was officially inaugurated today at a special ceremony held at 1 Anne Marg, Patna, where Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Nitish Kumar flagged off the first batch. The fleet comprises SMLI’s 22+1 seater CNG-powered vehicles, designed exclusively for women commuters, and will initially operate across six major cities in Bihar. Patna will receive eight buses, Muzaffarpur four, and two each in Gaya, Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, and Purnia.
In Patna, the pink buses will run on four key routes: Gandhi Maidan to AIIMS-Patna in Phulwarisharif, Danapur, and Kurji via Boring Road, and NIT-More to Kankarbagh autorickshaw stand.
With fares ranging from ₹6 to ₹35, the service offers an affordable and convenient mode of transport. Passengers can access a range of payment options, including prepaid cards, student passes, and monthly subscriptions.
While male drivers will operate the buses initially, all conductors will be women from day one. Plans are underway to induct women drivers once training programs are completed.
SMLI has ensured that safety and comfort are central to the vehicle design. Each bus is equipped with CCTV surveillance, GPS tracking, panic buttons, speed governors, fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and mobile charging ports at every seat. Commuters can also track buses in real-time via the ‘Chalo’ mobile app.
This pink bus initiative represents a bold step in Bihar’s journey toward inclusive, gender-sensitive urban mobility. By prioritising women’s needs and safety, the state is setting a progressive example in public transport reform.
