Pune: Shivneri Bus Driver Sacked for Watching IPL Match While Driving
Pune, 24th March 2025: A Shivneri bus driver was dismissed from service on Sunday after a viral video showed him watching an IPL match on his cellphone while driving a bus from Dadar to Swargate. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) swiftly took action following the viral clip, which was also sent to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
The driver, identified as Namdev Yadav, was working for a private contractor hired by MSRTC. He was caught on camera engrossed in the match while navigating the busy route. Taking strong action, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced Yadav’s immediate dismissal and imposed a ₹5,000 fine on the private contractor.
According to MSRTC public relations officer Abhijit Bhosle, the incident occurred on Saturday evening when the Shivneri bus left Dadar at 7 PM for Swargate, Pune. When the vehicle neared Lonavala, concerned passengers noticed Yadav watching the match while driving.
“Some of them took pictures and videos of him and shared them on social media, tagging the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). Upon receiving the complaint, we immediately verified the incident and took necessary action,” Bhosle said.
The CMO Maharashtra’s X (formerly Twitter) account confirmed the action, stating, “This driver was immediately suspended. An FIR is in process, and further action is underway. The matter was promptly addressed, and officials carried out due procedures for immediate disciplinary measures.”
Bhosle emphasized that Shivneri is MSRTC’s premier service known for its safety record, and such reckless behavior would not be tolerated.
“The driver’s actions endangered passenger safety, and we took strict action to set a precedent. This decision will help boost commuter confidence,” he added.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik acknowledged that this was not an isolated issue, stating, “Passengers frequently complain about autorickshaw and cab drivers using cellphones while driving. Many drivers wear earphones and remain engaged in calls, posing serious risks.”
He assured that the transport department would soon introduce new regulations to curb such behavior and improve road safety.
