SANJAY PANDEY @ EW News Ranchi :
Jharkhand state government has initiated the Chief Minister’s Village Vehicle Scheme, aiming to improve road transportation and accessibility in far-flung tribal regions. The directions for this scheme were issued by Deputy Commissioner
Rahul Kumar Sinha during a video conference held at the Secretariat Block-E conference room.
Under the visionary “Chief Minister’s Village Vehicle Scheme 2022,” specific routes connecting villages were meticulously planned, considering public places like hospitals, schools, colleges, weekly markets, local markets, and railway stations. The scheme emphasizes linking rural areas with block, sub-division, and district headquarters to ensure convenient transportation for villagers residing in remote regions. District Transport Officer, Ranchi, Mr. Praveen Prakash, was also present during the meeting.
Deputy Commissioner highlighted the government’s commitment to improving road transportation and commuting facilities in rural and tribal areas. He emphasized the need to integrate villages with essential facilities and directed officials to focus on public places while determining the routes for the scheme. This strategic planning aims to provide seamless transportation services to rural residents, enabling them to travel from one place to another at minimal costs.
One of the key aspects stressed by Deputy Commissioner Sinha was the implementation of “Citizen Monitoring” to prevent any misuse of the scheme. He urged all officials to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines, emphasizing that vehicle operators should not exploit the benefits provided by the government.
The initial phase of the scheme will witness the operation of 250 buses, catering to a wide range of beneficiaries, including senior citizens, students, persons with disabilities, HIV-positive individuals, widows, and activists associated with various movements. These beneficiaries will enjoy free bus travel on the specified routes identified under the scheme. Additionally, subsidies will be provided to operators for purchasing buses, and permit and fitness fees will be waived.
District Transport Officer, Mr. Praveen Prakash, urged all Block Development Officers to swiftly finalize the routes for the scheme. He emphasized the importance of timely route identification to ensure the scheme’s successful commencement on November 15, 2023.
The “Chief Minister’s Village Vehicle Scheme” will operate buses with varying seating capacities, including 7-seater and 42-seater vehicles. The state government will provide subsidies and one-time exemptions in registration fees for the procurement of new buses. Financial support will also be extended to operators regularly running vehicles on the specified routes.
This initiative is set to transform transportation in Jharkhand’s rural and tribal areas, making commuting more accessible, convenient, and affordable for the residents. The government’s focus on providing efficient transportation services underscores its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for citizens residing in remote regions
