The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) will suspend BRTS and city bus services across Surat on September 25 due to Ganesh idol immersion processions.
The civic body said large-scale immersion processions are expected across the city, leading to traffic restrictions and diversions at several locations. The suspension is aimed at ensuring passenger safety and avoiding disruptions during the immersion process.
Surat’s public transport network includes 385 BRTS buses operating on 13 routes along a 108-km dedicated corridor. Another 440 buses run on 45 city bus routes covering 418 km. More than 2.5 lakh passengers use these services every day and will be affected by the suspension.
The decision follows a September 2 letter from the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) regarding traffic arrangements for the immersion of Ganesh and other idols at artificial ponds and natural riverfront ghats.
Several major roads and junctions are expected to be affected, including Athwagate, SVNIT, Rahulraj Mall, S.K. Nagar, Athwa Overbridge, Sardar Tapi Bridge, Adajan Village, Star Bazaar, Pal RTO, Bhatha Village, ONGC Circle, KRIBHCO Overbridge, Mora Circle, L&T, Hazira, Dabholi, Parvat Patiya, Udhna-Magdalla Road, Sosyo Circle, Gandhi Kutir, Bhatar Overbridge, Vesu Canal Road, Raj Hans Crossroads, Abhva Crossroads and Hazira Highway Road.
BRTS and CityLink services will also remain suspended in the S.K. Nagar Overbridge area and other affected localities.
The SMC has advised commuters and other citizens to take note of the suspension and make alternative travel arrangements for September 25.