Khonsa, May 29:
Marking a major milestone in the history of public transportation in Arunachal Pradesh, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Friday flagged off the state's first-ever Restaurant Bus, a dedicated Road Safety Awareness Bus, and a fleet of 20 new luxury buses at Khonsa in Tirap district.
The launch ceremony, held as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services (APSTS), was attended by Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperation and Transport Minister Ojing Tasing, Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Wangki Lowang, Advisor (Transport) Chakat Aboh, Advisor (Environment, Forest and Climate Change) Wanglin Lowangdong, senior government officials and other dignitaries.
The initiative aims to redefine public transportation in Arunachal Pradesh by enhancing passenger comfort, promoting road safety awareness and introducing innovative services for travelers. The Restaurant Bus, a first-of-its-kind concept in the state, is expected to provide a unique travel and dining experience, while the Road Safety Awareness Bus will serve as a mobile platform for educating the public on safe driving practices and traffic regulations.
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| New Luxury Buses Flagged off by DCM Chowna Mein. |
APSTS is celebrating its Golden Jubilee from May 29 to May 31, 2026, at Nehru Stadium, Khonsa, commemorating 50 years of dedicated public service since its establishment in 1975 with just two buses.
The three-day celebration features a blend of community engagement, cultural activities and future-focused initiatives. Key highlights include the APSTS Golden Jubilee Marathon, a free medical health camp, and a technical workshop titled “Look Into The Future,” focusing on the modernization and future prospects of public transportation in the state.
Adding vibrancy to the celebrations, cultural programmes and musical performances by local and national artists are being organized each evening.
The flagging off of the luxury bus fleet, Restaurant Bus and Road Safety Awareness Bus symbolizes APSTS's commitment to innovation, modernization and improved public service as it embarks on its next chapter of growth and development.
