To facilitate the massive influx of pilgrims for Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has crafted a detailed plan. The Sonbhadra Roadways Depot is set to add two dozen new buses to its fleet specifically for Prayagraj routes. Currently, the depot operates 61 buses, and efforts are underway to repaint 80% of them in saffron and white, symbolizing peace and spirituality.
In line with the Maha Kumbh’s significance, only buses in saffron and white will operate on the Prayagraj routes during the event. However, the shortage of buses has been impacting operations. To address this, two dozen additional buses are expected to arrive by the end of December and will be deployed to meet the demands of pilgrims traveling to the holy city.
The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation is also working towards operating at least 75% of its buses through contractual arrangements across all depots, including Sonbhadra. Officials from the Varanasi region have assured that there is no dearth of new buses and that the Sonbhadra Depot will soon receive its allocation.
The condition of the existing fleet is another challenge. More than half of the buses at the Sonbhadra Depot are in a dilapidated state, prompting the reliance on contractual buses until the new vehicles arrive. Currently, five buses are being operated on a contract basis, providing much-needed relief to passengers who rely on roadways for their commute. The lack of operational buses has forced many passengers to turn to private buses plying on major roads, adversely affecting the depot’s revenue.
Despite these challenges, the Sonbhadra Depot generates a monthly income of ₹2.17 crore. With the addition of new buses and improved operations, this revenue is expected to increase. The depot’s buses cater to multiple routes, including Varanasi, Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Kanpur, Lucknow, Azamgarh, Mau, Ghazipur, and Gorakhpur.
Currently, 31 buses are in good operational condition, supported by 12 permanent drivers and 121 drivers employed on a contractual basis. Officials from the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation are confident that the measures being taken will ensure a seamless travel experience for pilgrims during Maha Kumbh 2025 while also boosting the efficiency and income of the Sonbhadra Depot.
This proactive approach highlights the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation’s commitment to serving millions of pilgrims expected to travel to Prayagraj for one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world.
