The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is all set to facilitate the annual pilgrimage of Ashadhi Wari at Pandharpur on June 28th with enhanced arrangements for devotees. This year, MSRTC has announced the operation of 5000 special ST buses and the establishment of new bus stops to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free journey for pilgrims visiting Lord Vitthal.
Special ST Buses Arrangement
- More than 280 ST buses are arranged by Pune Division.
- Services introduced from villages to Pandharpur.
Beneficial Schemes
- Amrut Jeshtha Nagrik: Free rides for senior citizens above 75.
- Mahila Sanman Yojana: 50% discount for women.
Village to Pandharpur
- Villages with 40+ devotees can request ST for direct bus service.
- Devotees urged to approach nearby ST depots.
5000 Special Buses Scheduled
- Departing from various depots across the state.
Security Measures
- 12 checkpoints to curb free-riders.
- 200 security personnel and officers on duty 24/7.
- Local police support with traffic controllers for smooth traffic.
Temporary Stops
- Four temporary stops erected at Chandrabhaga, Bhima, Pandurang (ITI College), and Vitthal Karkhana Yatra.
- Equipped with amenities like water, washroom, computer room, inquiry room, etc.
District-Wise Buses at Temporary Stops
- Chandrabhaga: Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Satara, Pune Division, and Pandharpur Depot.
- Bhima Yatra Degaon: Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nagpur, Amravati.
- Vitthal Karkhana: Nashik, Jalgaon, Dhule, Ahmednagar.
- Pandurang: Sangli, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg.
Source : lokmattimes
