PATNA, July 11 -- The governments of Bihar and Haryana on Friday signed a bilateral agreement to introduce regular inter-state bus services connecting key locations in both states. Operation of regular bus services would significantly ease travel woes of lakhs of migrant workers, officials said. The pact was inked in Haryana by Bihar's transport commissioner Arif Ahsan and Haryana's additional chief secretary (transport) Raja Shekhar Vundru. Bihar state road transport corporation (BSRTC) administrator Atul Kumar Verma was also present during the signing of the agreement. The move comes under the guidance of chief minister Samrat Choudhary, with inputs from transport minister Damodar Rawat and department secretary Rajkumar, according to a press note issued by the transport department here. Officials say the service is expected to be rolled out by the end of this month once administrative and technical formalities are completed. Under the agreement, modern air-conditioned buses will operate from BSRTC's six divisional headquarters - Patna, Purnia, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Darbhanga and Bhagalpur - to major industrial and commercial hubs in Haryana, including Gurugram, Ambala, Sonipat and Panipat, among others. The buses will run on fixed schedules, promising reliable and time-bound connectivity. For years, people from Bihar have been heading to Haryana in large numbers seeking jobs in private companies, factories, construction sites, service sectors, and small businesses. Cities like Gurugram have become home to thousands of Bihari workers, students, and traders who frequently travel back and forth. Until now, most relied on expensive and often unreliable private buses or other modes of transport, which not only burned a hole in their pockets but also came with uncertainties. State transport secretary Rajkumar described the agreement as a major milestone in expanding Bihar's inter-state public transport network. "The government is giving top priority to better connectivity with major states," he said. "This will provide quality AC bus services at affordable fares and reduce dependence on private operators." Transport commissioner Arif Ahsan echoed the sentiment, noting that passengers will now have a safer, more comfortable and trustworthy government-run option. "Many travellers had to pay higher fares and face inconveniences. This new service will change that, especially during festivals and peak travel seasons," he added. Beyond individual convenience, the direct bus links are expected to strengthen economic and social ties between the two states. Easier movement of people could boost trade, open up more employment opportunities, encourage investment and promote tourism. Regular public transport often acts as a powerful bridge for cultural and business exchanges between the two states, benefiting people on both sides....