Diglipur, July 8: In a landmark step towards enhancing rural connectivity and ensuring access to essential services, the first-ever State Transport Bus Service was inaugurated today for the remote villages of Ganesh Nagar and Shantinagar in Diglipur Tehsil. The inaugural run of the service was flagged off by Shri Kamaleshwar Rao S, IAS, Assistant Commissioner, Diglipur, in the presence of Pramukh, Panchayat Samiti, Diglipur, local PRI members, and members of the general public.
Ganesh Nagar and Shantinagar were notified as de-reserved blocks in 2002. However, for over two decades, the absence of proper road infrastructure and public transport connectivity had severely constrained mobility for the residents, particularly for school-going children enrolled in higher secondary schools in Diglipur, located approximately 40 km away. During the meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, A&N Administration on 27th June, 2025, in the presence of the Secretary (Rural Development), Secretary (Transport) and senior officials, the issue was prominently raised by the Pradhan, GP Gandhinagar. Acknowledging the urgency of the matter, the Administration took swift and decisive action.
As a result, within a short span of time, the State Transport Department commenced a dedicated bus service to these villages, marking a significant milestone in bridging the connectivity gap.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Assistant Commissioner, lauded the efforts of all Departments involved and emphasized the Administration’s commitment to inclusive development. He also remarked that “this bus service would serve as a lifeline for the school-going children of these remote villages, enabling them to attend school regularly, even during the challenging monsoon months.” The sentiment was echoed by the local residents who warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Administration for addressing a long-standing demand.
The new bus service from Ganesh Nagar and Shantinagar in Diglipur is expected to not only facilitate uninterrupted school attendance but also provide a vital link to markets, health facilities, and other Government services in the sub-divisional headquarters.