Public transport corporations across the country are suffering due to the pandemic as it has reduced the number of commuters and visitors. Although the travellers are increasing with each passing day, some action needs to be taken to improve the situation. The Gujarat government has taken a few measures to help the industries.
As per the latest GSRTC news, the government plans to purchase 1000 new buses and make them ready by the end of June 2021. Among these GSRTC new buses are a fair number of electric buses as well. The introduction of these buses will help reduce pollution.
Brand new bus stations with modern facilities and proper infrastructure have been built to accommodate these buses and services.
Infrastructure and connectivity
India is keen on developing its infrastructure, and you can see it in the form of luxurious buses plying across the states, connecting popular destinations. Since the heart of India lies in rural areas, it needs better connectivity to the outer world. By introducing new GSRTC buses, the general public can enjoy an affordable travel option that will connect them to the rural areas.
Unlike the olden times, public transportation today is in a better state with cleaner facilities. Not only are they pleasing to look at, but they also more approachable. These days, anyone can book an online ticket on the GSRTC bus to any part of the country through online portals.
Modern technology is connecting every part of the country both physically and digitally.
Electric buses by GSRTC
By adding 1000 buses to its already large fleet, GSRTC is, in a way, adding to the poor air quality. To lessen the burden, 50 of the new buses are electric buses compliant with the BS-VI (Bharat Stage) norms. It is exactly what the country needs at the moment.
These electric buses added to the already available public transportation could reduce a significant share of private vehicles on the road when operated in key routes. They are positive and sustainable solutions, which can reduce both emission and noise, and most importantly cut down the ungodly dependence on fossil fuels.
More of these buses on the road will make public transportation better and popular among people. It would also be an inspiration to avoid private vehicles and reduce both congestions on the road and pollution.
GSRTC and tourism in Gujarat
The new tourism policy of the Gujarat government focuses mainly on regional development and increasing tourism. The government aims to do so by preserving several heritage sites and diversifying various areas to become tourist destinations. The new policy also gives more importance to less emission and e-vehicles.
The latest decision by the government to buy electric buses is a positive approach. Since tourism is a major industry that results in a large amount of carbon emission, even a minimal effort in this area could have a major impact.
Since GSRTC is one of the popular bus operators to carry tourists across the state, a slight switch in its bus type can result in changes in the emission rates. Along with the construction of new bus stations, the government is also focusing on providing hygiene and sanitation facilities to the public.
The daily life of people is slowly getting back to normal, and many have started travelling. If the situation improves, this trend would be at its peak by the summertime when tourism and GSRTC are likely to see some considerable footfall. Hopefully, the new buses would be ready to line up by that time.
Popular tourist destinations connected by GSRTC
There are several tourist destinations in Gujarat. Most of them can be accessed through GSRTC buses. Because of its connectivity, GSRTC helps people save on their transportation costs. It also connects people to the major parts of the city, airports and railway stations.
GSRTC is a good option for a temple tour across the state. You can reach the following temples via this bus –
- Somnath temple
- Jagannath Temple
- Modhera Sun temple
- Akshardham temple
- Dwarkadhish temple
- AMbaji temple
Popular bus ticket booking portals such as redBus offer temple tour packages that last anywhere between 3-5 days and transportation facilities. Here the entry fee to the temple may not be inclusive.
GSRTC buses- the popular choice
With several luxurious buses in its fleet, GSRTC is the no.1 choice for many for their interstate travels. The bus tickets are cheaper than other private operators. GSRTC was also the first in the country to introduce GPS in their buses and people were able to track them.
GSRTC is also the primary choice for several school picnics in recent times. With comfortable seats and luxurious interiors, these buses give a tight competition to the private bus owners.
GSRTC bus ticket booking has been online for a few years, and they even allowed e-tickets, instead of a physical copy earlier itself. With the GSRTC bus booking facility allowed online people can easily see the price difference and comfort offered by them and make their choices.
There also are POS machines at the depots to facilitate easy ticket buying.
With over 25 lakhs passengers commuting every day by GSRTC, it needs more buses, bus stations, better facilities, etc. to improve its stature and services. There are more than 45k trips per day, of which the majority is towards the rural villages. Hopefully, with more buses, better facilities, improved infrastructure, and increased tourist footfall, the rural areas will see a new light and hope.
The government has already inaugurated five new stations and laid a stone for another 10 to be constructed. These recent developments and planning give a ray of hope for women to have better facilities on highways where there is a huge need.