Mumbai News: MSRTC Is Set To Enhance State Bus Fleet And Passenger Experience Throughout Maharashtra
Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to enhance its services by increasing its bus fleet and improving passenger facilities throughout the state. The plan involves procuring 5,000 new buses annually, while retiring old ones, aiming to double the total fleet from 13,000 to 25,000 in five years.
State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik acknowledged that while MSRTC is not currently profitable, it is managing financially. He noted that the corporation, which operates nearly all buses for Maharashtra's 13 crore population, faces a significant shortfall and requires at least 25,000 buses.
The action plan includes enhanced salaries and facilities for its 1 lakh employees and a focus on electric vehicles, despite production challenges. Sarnaik mentioned that, although 5,150 buses were ordered, only 450 have been delivered in the past year.
Commuters expressed that overcrowding, especially during peak hours, is a major issue, and an increase in buses would alleviate this problem, making travel more comfortable and more appealing to public transport users.
Previously,Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar recognized the urgency of the proposal and granted it their preliminary approval. He highlighted the necessity for MSRTC to achieve self-sufficiency by obtaining new buses to address the increasing transportation needs throughout the state.
"The new buses will be added at a rate of 5,000 per year, boosting MSRTC's current fleet of approximately 14300 buses. This move is expected to enhance the state’s public transportation system, providing more reliable services to millions of daily commuters" said Sarnaik.
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