Diwali Boost: 101 New GSRTC Buses Hit Gujarat Roads
Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi flags off 101 new GSRTC buses in Gandhinagar to enhance travel and gifts employees advance salary for Diwali.
In a significant move to bolster public transport and enhance passenger comfort, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi inaugurated 101 new GSRTC buses in Gandhinagar. The launch, timed with the festive occasion of Diwali, aims to provide citizens with safer, more reliable, and more comfortable travel options across the state.
A Break From Protocol: Employees Take the Lead
The inauguration ceremony was marked by a heartwarming gesture that deviated from traditional official protocols. Instead of flagging off the fleet himself, Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi invited the GSRTC employees—the very people who keep the wheels turning—to lead the ceremony. In a symbolic move of empowerment and appreciation, the employees themselves flagged off all 101 new buses as they were launched into public service.
Festive Gifts for the Frontline
Beyond the addition of new vehicles, the Deputy CM focused on the welfare of the workforce. Recognizing the hard work of the staff during the holiday rush, he announced that GSRTC employees would receive half a month's salary in advance to help them celebrate Diwali with their families.
Prior to the official flagging-off, the Deputy CM spent time interacting with the drivers, conductors, and workshop staff. He acknowledged their pivotal role in the state's transport operations and extended his warm Diwali and New Year greetings to the employees and their loved ones.
Improving Connectivity Across Gujarat
The introduction of these 101 buses is expected to have an immediate impact on commuters, especially during the peak Diwali travel season. The new fleet is designed to:
- Ease Passenger Burden: Reducing overcrowding during the festive rush.
- Bridge the Gap: Improving vital transport connectivity between rural hinterlands and urban centers.
- Enhance Safety: Providing updated vehicles for a more secure travel experience.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by several high-ranking officials and political leaders, including Minister of State for Transport Pravin Mali. Other notable attendees included:
- Rupsinh Thakor, Mayor of Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation
- Rajesh Patel, District Panchayat President
- MLAs Alpesh Thakor and Smt. Rita Patel
- Hareet Shukla, Principal Secretary of the Transport Department
- Dr. Rajender Kumar, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of GSRTC
- Ravi Nirmal, Secretary of GSRTC
The presence of local public representatives and transport officials underscored the state's commitment to upgrading the public transit infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.