Patna: Bihar took a major step toward promoting urban tourism on Tuesday with the launch of a Mumbai-like open double-decker bus service in Patna. The service, inaugurated by Tourism Minister Raju Singh, will operate daily along the picturesque 15-km stretch of JP Ganga Path, offering stunning views of the Ganges and prominent landmarks in the city.
Route & Timing: Digha Rotary to Kangan Ghat
The double-decker AC tourist bus will run from Digha Rotary Ghat to Kangan Ghat, covering major sightseeing points such as:
- Golambar
- Sabhyata Dwar
- Darbhanga House
- Gandhi Ghat
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu
- Chitragupt Temple
- Kangan Ghat
- Operating Hours: 5 PM to 10 PM
- Fare: ₹100 (round trip) | ₹50 (one way)
Bus Features: 40 Seats, AC, Onboard Guide & Amenities
The bus is designed to give a comfortable and enriching tourist experience-
- 20 AC seats on the lower deck
- 20 open-air seats on the upper deck
- Equipped with toilet, refrigerator, and a tour guide
- Narration of historical facts and local insights during the ride
BSTDC Managing Director Nand Kishore shared that this initiative aims to elevate Patna’s tourism appeal and may see more buses added depending on public response.
Also Read: Bihar Government to Provide Free Student Kits and New Books in Schools – Know More
Bihar to Host International Cricket Matches: Rajgir Stadium Handed Over to BCA
In a significant development for Bihar’s sports infrastructure, the state government has given in-principle approval to hand over the newly built International Cricket Stadium in Rajgir to the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA). This will pave the way for hosting national and international matches, with full affiliation under BCCI.
Sports Investment Highlights
Stadium Maintenance & Operation: Handed over to BCA
- Land Acquisition in Punpun (Patna): ₹574.34 crore sanctioned for 100 acres
- Govt Jobs for Players: Under Bihar Outstanding Players Rules, 2023
- 5 male & 5 female athletes to be appointed annually
- Selection based on merit, performance, and being a Bihar native
Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, Additional Chief Secretary, said this decision reflects Bihar’s vision of becoming a serious contender in the national sports arena by providing both infrastructure and career opportunities to athletes.