Mumbai :- In a move aimed at increasing off-season ridership and modernizing operations, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has introduced a 15% discount on advance bookings for long-distance routes, particularly on its premium e‑Shivneri bus service. The discount will be applicable starting July 2025.
The announcement was made by State Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik during the corporation’s 77th anniversary celebrations held at Yashwantrao Natya Mandir, Mumbai. Sarnaik called the initiative part of a broader strategy to enhance the MSRTC’s efficiency, appeal, and competitive edge.
In addition to the fare discount, two other key reforms were unveiled:
•Employee transfers will now be fully digitized, transitioning to an online system that prioritizes transparency and seniority-based decision-making.
•A new driver incentive scheme will reward MSRTC drivers who maintain accident-free performance, recognizing their contribution to road safety and service excellence.
Speaking to a packed auditorium of employees, dignitaries, and stakeholders, Sarnaik said, “Very few public organizations in India have endured for over 75 years. MSRTC has not only survived—it continues to evolve. Our goal is to make MSRTC the number one transport body in the country, offering safe, smart, and affordable travel for all.”
The fare concession is expected to make MSRTC’s inter-city services more attractive to travelers during non-peak seasons—particularly on routes between Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur, where e‑Shivneri buses are in high demand for their comfort and punctuality.
With over seven decades of service, MSRTC has been a lifeline for rural, tribal, and remote parts of Maharashtra. This latest step signals the organization’s intent to blend its deep-rooted legacy with digitization, incentive-based performance, and customer-centric policies—paving the way for its next phase of transformation.
