Two new caravans to connect state’s tourist circuits by road

Patna: Residents of Bihar will now be able to explore tourist destinations within the state and across the country in five-star comfort on wheels with the tourism department launching two luxury caravans on Friday.The caravans were flagged off by state tourism minister Arun Shankar Prasad, who also took a ride during the launch event. With the addition of the two new vehicles, the tourism department’s caravan fleet has increased from one to three.Each fully air-conditioned caravan is equipped with a bedroom, a bathroom with a shower, a kitchen and a dedicated dressing area, along with 24-hour WiFi. The two vehicles have a combined procurement cost of about Rs 2.18 crore and have received All India permits for inter-state travel. The caravans will be used to cover major tourism circuits including Patna, Gaya, Jehanabad, Buxar, Nawada, Rajgir, Banka and the Valmiki Nagar Tiger Reserve, apart from other destinations in Bihar and neighbouring states.The vehicles are fitted with six cameras for security and have been designed by a company that manufactures bulletproof vehicles for the Bihar govt. The two caravans were delivered to the state within three months of manufacturing.Deputy manager of the manufacturing company Vishal Ratan said, “Automatic foldable foot steps were provided for entering the caravan. The bus has four recliners, one three-seater sofa and four sleeper berths. These recliners are fully automated and can be operated as per convenience. These seats can also be moved 360 degrees.”He said a snack table has been provided next to each seat, while the curtains beside the seats are motorised and can be opened or closed at the push of a button.Ratan said a 43-inch smart TV has been installed in the caravan, with an additional TV in each sleeper berth in the bedroom area. Mobile charging points are available near every seat. “In case of any problem or to give instructions, one can directly coordinate with the driver,” he said.“Aircraft-like overhead cabin storage was provided for luggage. Storage facilities were also provided under the sofa. An emergency exit was provided for safety. Inside the vehicle, a proper slab was made in the kitchen area, which has an induction facility. People can also cook food on this. Along with this, a fridge, microwave and water cooler are also present,” Ratan said.He added that more than four compartments have been created in the kitchen area to store utensils and other items, along with a wash basin for cleaning after cooking.The bedroom area allows four people to sleep together and is decorated with wallpapers depicting different tourist destinations in India. Each seat has an AC vent, reading lamp, motorised curtain and mobile charging socket. The right side of the bedroom is fitted with orthopaedic mattresses designed to provide comfort to people with back pain, leg pain or cervical problems.The bathroom includes a basin and a shower area, with both hot and cold water available. A marine toilet has been installed, designed to function efficiently with minimal water. A separate dressing area has also been provided in the bedroom, with a large mirror and shelves for cosmetics.Transport manager of the tourism department Ratnesh Kumar said, “The fare was fixed at Rs 75 per kilometre for a minimum of 250 kilometres. Also, booking for one day will be at around Rs 20,000 per day, with the per-kilometre rate applicable for longer journeys. Meanwhile, in Patna, a booking option was provided for 12 hours and a 75-km journey at Rs 11,000.”