In a significant move to overhaul the state’s transport infrastructure and boost employment, the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, announced a major expansion of the state’s bus fleet on December 19, 2025.
The announcement focuses on two primary goals: improving rural connectivity and ending the “monopoly” of large private transport players.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
- 505 Mini Bus Permits for YouthAs part of the “Rozgar Kranti Scheme,” the Chief Minister handed over 505 mini bus permits to unemployed youth at an event in Chandigarh.
•Purpose: To transform youth from “job seekers” into “job givers.”
•Transparency: The government emphasized that these permits were issued through a fair and merit-based process, moving away from previous practices where permits were allegedly reserved for those with political connections.
•Total Progress: Since March 2022, the Transport Department has approved a total of 1,165 small-stage carriage permits.
2. Induction of 1,311 New BusesTo strengthen the public transport network, the state will introduce a fleet of 1,311 new buses.
•Fleet Type: This includes full-sized buses and midi-buses to be added to the PRTC (Punjab Roadways Transport Corporation) and Punbus fleets.
•Manufacturing: The government is focusing on procuring “fully built” buses directly from manufacturers to ensure safety standards and transparency in procurement.
3. Modernizing Infrastructure
Beyond just adding vehicles, the government is upgrading the travel experience:
•Facelift for Bus Stands: Major bus stands in Patiala, Jalandhar, Sangrur, Ludhiana, and Bathinda are being modernized with “world-class” facilities.
•Digital Booking: A new mobile application will be launched soon, allowing passengers to book bus tickets directly from their phones.
•Shuttle Services: The introduction of a new shuttle bus service was announced to improve “last-mile connectivity” for commuters in various regions.
Impact on the State
•Rural Connectivity: The mini-bus scheme is specifically designed to provide better transport in rural and remote areas where large buses cannot easily operate.
•Economic Boost: The CM noted that this expansion would stimulate allied sectors, including petrol pump operators and local mechanics.
•Safety for Students: A portion of these services is being dedicated to school connectivity, particularly building on the existing free bus service for girl students in government schools.
”We are breaking the trend of family-run monopolies. This is a historic milestone for an honest government committed to the welfare of the common man.” — CM Bhagwant Mann