In a significant move to enhance public infrastructure, the Maharashtra government is set to beautify 193 bus stops across the state with the support of the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). These facilities, witnessing a high daily footfall, are in dire need of upgrades, especially during the rainy season when large puddles and potholes inconvenience commuters.
Responding to the pressing need, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde urged MIDC to collaborate with the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to enhance the bus terminals. In response, Cabinet Minister for Industries Uday Samant signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MSRTC and MIDC in Nagpur, with Chief Minister Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in attendance. The MIDC has allocated approximately ₹600 crore for the comprehensive revamp of the identified 193 bus stops.
Chief Minister Shinde explained that the funds would primarily be utilized for upgrading bus terminals within the MSRTC premises, incorporating concrete work and establishing world-class toilets. In the first phase of the Balasaheb Thackeray bus stop scheme, MSRTC plans to beautify 193 bus stops.
While the details of the scheme are yet to be unveiled, an MSRTC official, speaking on anonymity, expressed optimism, describing it as a welcome initiative considering the substandard conditions of the existing bus stops. The MoU was signed in the presence of Transport Secretary Paraj Jain and MSRTC Vice President Vivek Bhimnavar.
This collaboration, valued at ₹600 crore, aims to renovate a total of 193 bus stations across the state under the initiative ‘Hindu Hruday Samrat Swachh, Sundar bus sthanak.’ Of the allocated funds, ₹100 crore is earmarked for beautification efforts, while the remaining ₹500 crore will be dedicated to road concretization within State Transport (ST) bus stations. This significant investment focuses on enhancing the overall commuter experience and addressing challenges posed by poor road conditions, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
The official statement issued by MSRTC on December 19th confirmed the allocation of funds for these specific purposes. The MoU signing ceremony, held during the winter assembly session at Vidhan Bhavan in Nagpur, underlines the government’s commitment to improving public amenities and ensuring a seamless travel experience for citizens. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s call to MIDC for support during the 75th anniversary of MSRTC has resulted in this impactful collaboration, marking a proactive step toward transforming the state’s bus infrastructure.