Between 2018-19 and 2021-22, the number of buses operated by state road transport undertakings (SRTUs) declined from 1.52 lakh to 1.47 lakh, while revenue losses surged by 68 per cent to ₹30,192 crore. The main causes were reduced passenger revenue during Covid-19, high fuel prices, stagnant fares, and free rides for women in some states. Fleet utilization and productivity also dropped significantly. Efforts to introduce electric buses face infrastructure challenges but are progressing.
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Rahul Gandhi criticizes Kejriwal's governance by highlighting poor infrastructure in Delhi, with videos showing open drains and collapsed roads. He also challenges Kejriwal on social justice issues, questioning his stance on reservation policies. This intensifies the rivalry between Congress and AAP ahead of the assembly polls.
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The road transport ministry has mandated that speed limits and vehicle logos be painted on expressways and National Highways every 10 km to guide drivers. New guidelines also require larger signage at frequent intervals, placement of 'no parking' signage every 5 km, and display of emergency helpline numbers to enhance driving safety.
Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman wore a handcrafted Madhubani saree by Padma Shri awardee Dulari Devi on Budget Day. The saree, which took a month to craft, was a gift from Devi during Sitharaman's visit to the Mithila Art Institute. Devi expressed her joy at this honor.
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