# Shared stations, smarter transit

> India opens state bus terminals to private fleets for safer, less congested travel.
- Title: Shared stations, smarter transit · Financialexpress | Shortify
- Summary: India opens state bus terminals to private fleets for safer, less congested travel. India must allow private bus fleets to use state terminals to improve…
- Keywords: india, state bus terminals, private fleets, transit hubs, traffic congestion, public safety, revenue generation, business, money, news, Shared, stations
- Source: Financialexpress — https://financialexpress.com/opinion/shared-stations-smarter-transit-why-india-must-open-state-bus-terminals-to-private-fleets/4364585
- Author: Rameesh Kailasam
- Published: 2026-10-19T07:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: india, state bus terminals, private fleets, transit hubs, traffic congestion, public safety, revenue generation, business, money, news
## India's bus travel dilemma
Millions rely on buses daily across cities, districts, and state borders.
## Private buses excluded from terminals
Private operators remain systematically excluded from government-owned bus terminals.
## Current problems with private buses
Private buses pick up passengers along chaotic highways, congested city bottlenecks, or under flyovers.
## Integrated terminals benefit all
Dedicated private bays within state terminals create a balanced ecosystem for all stakeholders.
## Maximising public infrastructure
Government terminals occupy prime real estate with severe off-peak underutilisation.
## Privatisation optimises infrastructure
Staggering schedules across public and private fleets reduces congestion and traffic bottlenecks.
## Safety improvements for passengers
Formal terminals provide well-lit waiting areas, clean restrooms, and CCTV monitoring.
## Revenue from private fleets
State transport departments can charge entry fees and increase retail revenue through higher foot traffic.
## Real-world examples
Delhi and southern hubs have implemented similar models with regulated access to private buses.
## Policy steps needed
State governments must amend rules, reconfigure terminals, and use digital tech for efficient management.
## Key takeaway

India must allow private bus fleets to use state terminals to improve safety, reduce traffic, and generate revenue.