On November 22, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde sanctioned the inclusion of 3,495 buses into the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation’s (MSRTC) fleet for the upcoming year. According to an announcement from the chief minister’s office, Shinde granted approval for the addition of 2,200 fully-built ordinary buses to the fleet by March 2024 during the 303rd meeting of the state transport body. Additionally, the decision was made to lease 1,295 ordinary buses from private operators.
Being the chairman of the MSRTC, Chief Minister Shinde oversees the expansion of the corporation’s services. Currently maintaining a fleet of approximately 15,000 buses, the MSRTC plays a crucial role in transporting over 60 lakh passengers across the state on a daily basis. In an effort to enhance facilities at bus stands, Chief Minister Shinde issued a directive to ensure that women self-help groups are allotted at least one stall at each bus stand. Furthermore, he advocated for the establishment of ‘Aapla Dawakhana’ or government-run dispensaries at all district bus stands, aiming to improve healthcare accessibility for the public.
This strategic move to augment the MSRTC’s fleet aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing public transportation services and accommodating the growing demand for efficient travel options. The chief minister’s emphasis on women’s economic empowerment through the allocation of stalls and the integration of healthcare facilities at bus stands reflects a holistic approach to community development and well-being. The initiative not only addresses the immediate need for increased transport capacity but also seeks to create a more inclusive and accessible public infrastructure for the benefit of the citizens of Maharashtra.