Ahmedabad: The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) has announced a new initiative to enhance passenger convenience by providing on-board packed meals on express bus routes. The initiative, “On-Demand Packed Food – Food on Bus,” aims to offer passengers food delivery directly to their seats, similar to services available on airplanes and trains.

The initiative will initially be launched on a pilot basis in Ahmedabad, with the tender process expected to begin soon. The project also aims to increase the corporation’s non-traffic revenue streams.

Pilot Route Details

Under the pilot scheme, food delivery will be available on express bus routes covering major stops, including Paldi, CTM, Krishnanagar, Naroda Patiya, Nehrunagar, Ranip, Narol Cross Road, Sarkhej, Odhav Cross Road, Adalaj, and Jashodanagar Point and Pickup Stand.

Passengers will be able to book meals online in advance along with their bus tickets through GSRTC’s Online Passenger Reservation System (OPRS). Orders must be placed at least three hours before reaching the stop where the food is to be delivered. Passengers can also place orders during the journey.

Service Guidelines and Restrictions

GSRTC has invited online quotations from agencies through an “Expression of Interest” to provide this service. The designated agency will be prohibited from serving tobacco, bidi, gutka, non-vegetarian items, or other banned products on the bus. Any irregularities in service or delays in food delivery may attract fines ranging from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000, as per the corporation’s guidelines. DeshGujarat