District Collector flags off 70 minibus services in Erode

District Collector Raja Gopal Sunkara launches 70 minibus services, providing improved connectivity to rural residents in the district.

District Collector Raja Gopal Sunkara on Wednesday flagged off 70 minibus services, and handed over permits to bus owners under the newly introduced scheme at the Collectorate.

Under the new comprehensive minibus scheme 2024, announced by the Department of Transport, 65 new routes were identified in the district, and 97 applications were received. For routes with multiple applicants, selections were made through a draw of lots, and 65 applications were finalised. Of these, permits were issued to four new buses, which have now commenced service.

Additionally, under the route relocation scheme, 69 applications were received. Permits were issued to 66 buses under this scheme, and those services have also begun. These new transport services are expected to benefit rural residents by improving connectivity to urban areas.

Officials said that under the new scheme, minibuses are allowed to operate on routes up to 25 km, with at least 65% of the distance covering previously unserved areas. Earlier, the maximum permitted route length was 20 km, with a requirement that 16 km of it be in unserved areas.