Neglected Land in Alandi Holds Potential to Decongest ST Bus Depots in Pune
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 14th June 2025: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has long struggled with severe parking constraints at its Vallabhnagar and Shivajinagar (Wakadewadi) depots. Due to limited space, buses are routinely parked along the Pune-Mumbai highway, posing safety hazards. However, two underutilized MSRTC-owned plots in Alandi, covering nearly six acres, remain neglected and are now facing increasing encroachment.
If developed, these sites could significantly ease congestion at existing depots and offer direct connectivity for devotees visiting the religious town of Alandi from various regions of Maharashtra. Officials and stakeholders argue that activating these plots could not only reduce roadside bus parking but also enhance MSRTC’s revenue.
Growing Demand for Direct Services
Currently, MSRTC buses from Gangakhed, Mangalwedha, Kandhar, Mahur, and Pandharpur arrive in Alandi every night and depart between 7 and 8 a.m. The strong commuter response to these routes indicates a viable opportunity for further expansion. Additional buses, which now halt overnight at Wakadewadi or Vallabhnagar, could be rerouted to Alandi for better logistical efficiency.
Temporary Use During Pilgrimage Events
MSRTC temporarily operates from the Alandi plots during the Ashadhi Wari and Kartiki Yatra pilgrimages, accommodating a large influx of buses from Western Maharashtra, Mumbai, Konkan, and Nashik regions. For devotees from Marathwada and Vidarbha, MSRTC has also utilized private open land along Wadgaon Road for the past three years.
Encroachment and Legal Concerns
Although a portion of the land is embroiled in legal disputes due to encroachment, officials confirm that a substantial part of the land remains free and usable. Old MSRTC station buildings still exist at both locations, signaling readiness for redevelopment with minimal investment.
Private travel companies have already seized the opportunity, launching evening bus services from Alandi to Marathwada and Vidarbha via Nagar Road, with many buses passing through Moshi, Bhosari, and Vishrantwadi — highlighting unmet commuter needs.
Religious Connectivity and Infrastructure Potential
From Alandi, MSRTC already connects to Mahur, Pandharpur, and Mangalwedha, forming a spiritual circuit. Further expansions could link additional pilgrimage destinations. Alandi also enjoys PMPML connectivity to Dehu, Bhandara Dongar, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s memorial at Tulapur. However, long-term development would require dedicated accommodation for bus drivers and conductors.
“We are in the process of seeking headquarters’ approval for the development of these lands to establish full-fledged ST bus stations,” said Arun Siya, Divisional Controller, Pune Division.
Key Points:
Alandi’s strategic location and religious significance offer a sustainable model for alleviating Pune’s transportation pressure.
-Utilizing ST-owned land can prevent further encroachment, reduce roadside hazards, and boost MSRTC’s earnings.
-Integrating Alandi into the core bus network strengthens direct pilgrimage access across Maharashtra.
