BY DEBDUTTA MITRA
KOLKATA | 14 NOVEMBER 2026
In a major boost for overnight travellers, the state government is preparing to launch luxury air-conditioned Volvo sleeper buses on key long-distance routes. This move directly addresses a long-standing public demand for comfortable, budget-friendly alternatives to expensive private operators.
Four state-of-the-art Volvo 9600 sleeper coaches have already arrived and are currently stationed at the Kasba Bus Depot, alongside several other modern Volvo models. Operated by the South Bengal State Transport Corporation (SBSTC), these initial buses will soon begin servicing major long-distance corridors, with additional sleeper coaches expected to join the fleet in the coming days.
Over the past two years, private AC sleeper buses have surged in popularity for overnight journeys to major tourism hubs like North Bengal and Puri. Travellers frequently rely on these coaches as a comfortable backup when train tickets remain unconfirmed. However, the steep pricing of private operators has been a major pain point for daily commuters and holidaymakers alike. Private fares often cost double that of a long-distance 3-tier AC train ticket, with single-seat prices regularly crossing ₹5,000 during peak travel windows such as Durga Puja, winter holidays, and major festivals.
By introducing government-run Volvo sleeper services, authorities aim to break this pricing barrier and keep premium overnight road travel accessible to the common public.
As festive travel surges and private bus fares soar past first-class AC train tickets, the West Bengal Transport Department is stepping in with a fleet of luxury Volvo sleeper and seater coaches designed to keep long-distance travel comfortable and budget-friendly.
The state-of-the-art buses have begun arriving at the Kasba bus depot, promising an affordable alternative for everyday travelers. While official routes are still being finalized, transport officials are actively considering high-demand corridors including Kolkata–Puri, Kolkata–Siliguri, Kolkata–Balurghat, Kolkata–Purulia, and Durgapur–Tatanagar.
Fleet Expansion and Pricing
The West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) is inducting 27 new Volvo buses in phases, with two already stationed at the depot and two more scheduled to arrive next Monday. Meanwhile, the South Bengal State Transport Corporation (SBSTC) will add 10 new Volvos to its fleet, comprising four sleeper coaches and six seater buses. Each AC sleeper coach costs approximately ₹2 crore, while the standard seater variants are priced at ₹1.75 crore.
A Blend of Modern Comfort and Bengal Heritage
Built with passenger comfort as a priority, the sleeper buses can accommodate around 40 passengers in spacious berths, while the seater models feature wide, ergonomic seating. Inside, travelers will find personal reading lights and soft ambient lighting for a relaxing overnight journey.
Visually, the buses celebrate West Bengal’s cultural identity. Sporting a striking saffron-and-white livery, the exteriors are adorned with iconic imagery of the Howrah Bridge and the Dakshineswar Temple, blending modern luxury with regional pride.
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