In a move to enhance its services, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has unveiled plans to introduce over 1,300 new buses to its fleet as a New Year’s gift to commuters. This significant step comes in response to the persistent shortage of buses, which has affected the transportation needs of millions across the state.
In recent years, MSRTC has seen a dramatic drop in daily passengers, losing around 11 lakh commuters due to an inadequate number of buses. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the fleet boasted around 18,500 buses, with 15,500 in active service catering to approximately 65 lakh passengers each day. However, following the pandemic and ongoing maintenance challenges, the active fleet dwindled to about 14,500 buses, leading to a decrease in daily passengers to around 54 lakh. The shortage has persisted despite growing demand, contributing to financial difficulties for the corporation.
In an effort to rectify the situation, MSRTC will lease about 1,300 new buses, with roughly 450 buses being stationed on key routes such as Mumbai-Pune, Nashik-Sambhajinagar, and Nagpur-Amravati. These new buses are expected to begin service in the coming days, heralding a much-needed boost to the MSRTC’s operations.
This expansion is expected to not only alleviate the corporation’s financial strain but also provide more affordable travel options for the people of Maharashtra, particularly benefiting those from lower-income groups. The move promises to enhance the commuting experience for passengers, ensuring greater reliability without causing a hike in fares.
With the addition of these buses, MSRTC is set to reinforce its reputation as a dependable transport service, offering relief to millions of passengers who rely on its iconic “Lal Pari” buses. This expansion marks a fresh chapter for MSRTC as it strives to meet the growing transportation needs of the state.
