Ganeshotsav 2026: Special ST Buses from Pune to Konkan Receive Overwhelming Response, 173 Fully Booked

Pune, 9th September 2026: With a large number of people from Pune expected to travel to Konkan for the upcoming Ganeshotsav, the Pune division of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has completed preparations to facilitate their journey. As many as 173 special ST buses planned from the Pune division for the festival have already been fully booked.

Of the 173 buses, 120 have been booked through group reservations, while individual bookings have been completed for 53 buses, officials said.

Every year, a large number of passengers travel from Pune to various parts of Konkan during Ganeshotsav, similar to the rush witnessed during the Holi festival. To cater to the additional demand, the MSRTC operates special buses during the festival.

Last year, the Pune division operated 170 additional buses for Ganeshotsav. In view of the growing response from passengers this year, the number has been increased to 173. The buses will cater to passengers travelling to Ratnagiri, Chiplun and other parts of Konkan, providing relief to those who otherwise face difficulties securing transport during the festival rush.

“Ganeshotsav is one of the biggest festivals in Maharashtra, and a large number of people travel to Konkan during this period. To ensure that passengers do not face difficulties at the last minute and that their journey is safe and timely, we have completed the planning in advance,” said Kamlesh Dhanrale, Divisional Transport Officer, MSRTC, Pune division.

“Last year, 170 buses were operated, while this year 173 buses have been planned based on passenger demand and have received an overwhelming response. If required, additional buses will also be considered in the coming days based on passenger demand,” he added.