Special bus to aid ‘Pitr Paksh' rituals in Gaya
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Varanasi: The Uttar Pradesh govt has taken a significant step for travelers to Gaya in Bihar for 'Pitr Paksh', the fortnight-long period during which rituals are offered for departed souls to rest in peace.
Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) launched from Wednesday a special bus service from Varanasi to Gaya. The service will facilitate pilgrims to fulfil religious duties and rituals, such as 'pind daan' and 'tarpan'. The bus is being operated on trial basis, and if successful, it may run regularly.
The bus from Chandauli Depot will depart daily at 8 pm from Varanasi's Chaudhary Charan Singh Bus Terminal and reach Gaya by 4 am.
On return, it will leave Gaya at 8 am and be back in Varanasi by 3 pm, traveling 295 kms. The fare from Varanasi to Gaya is Rs 465. During Pitr Paksh, lakhs of devotees from across the country visit Gaya to perform rituals like Pind Daan and Tarpan for their ancestors. Until now, pilgrims had to rely on limited options like private vehicles or trains, causing inconvenience and time wastage.
This new bus service provides direct connectivity from Varanasi to Gaya, saving travelers time and resources.
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Parashuram Pandey, regional manager of the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation, said the service had been initiated on trial basis and based on response of passengers, it could be operated regularly.
From Varanasi to Gaya, the bus will pass Chandauli, Mohania, Kudra, Sasaram, Aurangabad, Sherghati and Dobhi.
The bus service will benefit not only pilgrims from Varanasi and surrounding areas but also strengthen the cultural and religious ties between Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
The service features 52-seater bus that is environment-friendly adhering to BS-6 standards and offering passenger comfort.
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