250 Punjab govt buses painted ‘AAP’s yellow and blue’, opposition cries foul

Around 250 buses Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) buses – PRTC and Punjab Roadways – operating under the kilometre scheme are being painted yellow and blue. The Opposition Congress alleges this is the ruling AAP’s attempt to use public funds for publicity, as these colours are closely associated with the party. Transport Minister Laljit Bhullar didn’t respond to calls.

Shamsher Singh, general secretary of Punjab Roadways and PRTC Contractual Employees Union, said the government first forcibly allowed buses under the kilometre scheme and now operators are being asked to paint them blue and yellow. “Buses originally in blue/silver and red/silver patterns were returned to the Rajasthan fabricator. This is a waste of public money,” he said.

Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa questioned the move, saying, “This is the real change AAP has brought. The government must be held accountable for using buses for political agenda.”

The union pointed out that the government lacks funds to regularise employees but is forcing service providers to paint buses blue and yellow. A senior official defended the move, saying it’s not new — rural mini buses were painted yellow and blue during the Akali regime.