In a unique gesture, Acharya Devvrat, the Governor of Gujarat, recently travelled on an ordinary State Transport (ST) bus from Visnagar to Anand. This journey was part of his attendance at a natural farming dialogue at Anand Agricultural University. The Governor chose to travel like an ordinary citizen, setting aside traditional protocols and VIP arrangements to connect with the people directly.
The Governor booked three tickets online for a non-AC super deluxe ST bus. The bus, numbered GJ-18 ZT-0519, made its way from Visnagar to Anand, passing through key stops like Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad. Early on Sunday morning, at 7:20 am, Governor Devvrat arrived at the Gandhinagar ST depot without prior notice and boarded the bus alongside other passengers.
The bus followed its regular route and reached Anand ST bus station at about 10:15 am. During the journey, the Governor interacted with fellow passengers, discussing their experiences with the state transportation services. He noted that many were satisfied with the improvements in the ST roadways.
Reflecting on his journey, the Governor expressed, “For a long time, I wanted to travel on a common bus with ordinary citizens. Today, I left Gandhinagar at 7:20 am and reached Anand around 10:15 am. It was a great opportunity to meet and talk with people from different regions of the state.” He added that he enjoyed engaging with various passengers, including students, young adults, and the elderly. They all seemed pleased with the transportation facilities provided by the government.
The Governor’s trip was not just about travel; it was about fostering a sense of connection between the government and the public. He described the experience as warm and enjoyable, highlighting the importance of direct communication between citizens and the administration. He believes that such journeys play a vital role in enhancing public engagement.
Upon arrival at Anand ST station, the Governor received a warm welcome from district officials, including Collector Praveen Chaudhari, Development Officer Devahuti, District Police Chief Gaurav Jasani, and other senior officials from the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC).
This initiative by Governor Acharya Devvrat showcases his commitment to simplicity and accessibility in governance. By choosing to travel like a common citizen, he has set an example of humility and connection with the people of Gujarat. This journey not only allowed him to experience public transport firsthand but also provided him with insights into the public’s views on governmental services.
As the first citizen of the state, his actions underline the importance of strong values in administration, public relations, and service to the community. The Governor’s experience reflects a growing trend among leaders to engage with citizens in more relatable ways, breaking barriers and fostering trust within communities.
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