Surat BRTS to remain shut on Uttarayan over safety concerns

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has announced significant changes to public transport operations in the city during the upcoming Uttarayan festival, citing safety concerns.

According to the civic body, all Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) services in Surat will remain completely suspended on January 14, 2026, which marks Uttarayan.

On the same day, city bus services will operate at only 30% of their regular schedule. Officials said the decision was taken particularly in view of safety issues along BRTS corridors, where incidents have been reported during kite flying and while handling patang.

Commuters will receive partial relief on January 15, 2026, known as Vasi Uttarayan. On that day, BRTS services will resume at 30% capacity, while city buses will operate at 50% of their usual schedule, Surat Citylink Limited said.

At present, Surat’s public transport network serves more than two lakh passengers every day, with 367 BRTS buses operating across a 108-kilometre corridor and 387 city buses running on 45 routes. Authorities said the temporary reduction in services is a precautionary step aimed at minimising the risk of accidents during the festive period.

Surat Citylink Limited has urged residents to plan their travel and cooperate with the authorities during the celebrations. It added that public transport services would be gradually restored to normal once the Uttarayan festivities conclude.