The Maharashtra State Transport Authority (STA) has approved a 14.95% hike in MSRTC bus fares, effective from January 25th an official said on Friday. The decision was taken during an STA meeting held on Thursday, according to a release from the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles Department.
The state-run Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is one of the largest public transporters in the country, operating a fleet of approximately 15,000 buses and ferrying 55 lakh passengers daily.
Key Decisions Taken in the Meeting:
Fare Hike for MSRTC Buses:
Due to an increase in the prices of essential components such as diesel, chassis, and tires, as well as a rise in the dearness allowance, the Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) submitted a proposal on January 1, 2025, to increase passenger fares. The last fare hike was implemented on October 26, 2021.
Based on a formula recommended by an expert committee, the State Transport Authority approved a 14.95% hike in fares for stage carriage services of the MSRTC. This fare hike will come into effect from midnight on January 25, 2025.
Approval for BS-6 Buses:
The authority reviewed measures regarding the introduction of new BS-6 standard buses with an eco-friendly design in tomato red livery. These measures were approved.
Color Scheme for E-Buses:
The authority approved the proposed color schemes for MSRTC’s e-buses:
A white and green livery for 50 e-buses.
A sky-blue livery (similar to Shivneri buses) for 100 e-buses.
Renewal and Issuance of Rent-a-Cab Licenses:
The STA granted approval for the renewal of rent-a-cab licenses for existing holders and the issuance of new licenses to applicants.
