MSRTC to Expand Fleet with 3,500 New Buses in 2025
The Maharashtra State Road and Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced plans to add 3,500 new buses to its fleet starting in January 2025. This initiative aims to address vehicle breakdowns, reduce passenger wait times, and improve overall services.
Fleet Expansion Plans
MSRTC Chairman Bharat Gogawale revealed the details during a press conference in Nagpur:
- New Additions:
- 2,200 buses will be directly purchased for the MSRTC fleet.
- 1,300 buses will be hired on lease.
- Target Issues:
- Reduce instances of bus breakdowns.
- Minimize long wait times for passengers.
Current Challenges
MSRTC’s fleet has reduced significantly due to various challenges:
- Fleet Size:
- Pre-pandemic (2018): 18,000 buses.
- Current: 14,000 buses.
- Pandemic Impact:
- MSRTC was unable to purchase new buses in recent years, leading to a shortage.
- This has restricted the ability to provide additional services amid growing passenger demand.
Delays in Electric Bus Procurement
In 2022, MSRTC placed an order for 5,100 electric buses. However, the supplier has only delivered fewer than 1,000 buses so far, further straining operations.
Development of Bus Stations
MSRTC also plans to upgrade bus station infrastructure across Maharashtra:
- Funding Sources:
- Government-funded projects.
- Public-private partnerships for additional developments.
- Ongoing Projects:
- The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has started cement concretization of 183 bus station areas under the leadership of former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
MSRTC’s Role and Future
MSRTC is one of India’s largest public transport providers. However, passenger numbers have dipped below 60 lakh daily since the pandemic. With the planned fleet expansion and infrastructure upgrades, MSRTC aims to restore passenger confidence and enhance its service efficiency.
This ambitious initiative promises smoother, more reliable travel options for the people of Maharashtra in the coming years.
