Pune: MSRTC To Offer Luxury Buses For Stranded Passengers At No Extra Cost

Pune, 19th March 2025: Passengers stranded due to technical failures or minor accidents of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses will now be provided with alternate transport, including higher-grade buses, without having to pay any additional fare. The MSRTC has issued a circular directing strict enforcement of this rule. Drivers and conductors who fail to comply will face disciplinary action.

Frequent incidents of ST buses breaking down during journeys due to technical issues or minor accidents have caused inconvenience to passengers. Previously, passengers from broken-down buses were accommodated on standard buses (non-AC, basic services) plying the same route. However, higher-grade buses (air-conditioned and luxury services) often did not stop for stranded passengers. Even when they did, passengers were required to pay the fare difference.

According to the new directive, MSRTC has made it mandatory for all buses on the same route, including higher-grade ones, to stop and pick up passengers from stranded buses. Passengers will not be charged any additional fare—they can continue their journey on the same ticket. This move is expected to save passengers from unnecessary delays and discomfort by providing immediate transport solutions.

The MSRTC has instructed that a copy of the circular be displayed on notice boards at depots and bus stands to inform drivers, conductors, and passengers. It has also warned that any complaints regarding non-compliance will result in strict action against the responsible staff.