In a move aimed at easing travel for Mumbai-based Konkan residents ahead of Ganeshotsav, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the cancellation of a proposed 30% fare hike on one-way group reservations. Transport Minister and ST Corporation Chairman Pratap Sarnaik made the announcement, adding that the rollback is expected to cost the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) an estimated ₹13–₹16 crore.
ST Services During Festivals
For over 77 years, MSRTC has been providing timely and affordable public transport across the state, especially during high-demand festivals like Ganeshotsav, Ashadhi Yatra and Holi. This year, the Corporation plans to deploy nearly 5,000 additional buses to cater to the massive rush of devotees travelling from Mumbai and surrounding areas to Konkan.
The Financial Burden of Empty Returns
Despite offering various concessions to senior citizens and women on group bookings, ST faces a recurring financial challenge during such festivals. Most passengers book one-way trips to Konkan, leaving buses to return empty. This results in extra costs related to fuel, driver and conductor wages and overtime allowances. Buses are often sourced from other districts, causing temporary shortages locally.
Why the Hike Was Initially Introduced
To mitigate the losses from running empty return buses, MSRTC had earlier decided on a 30% fare hike for one-way group bookings. However, in light of public emotion and following Shinde's suggestion, the fare hike was scrapped. The Corporation, though supportive of public convenience, acknowledged that this decision will deepen its operational losses.
Losses Could Rise This Year
In 2023, MSRTC ran 4,330 buses to Konkan and 1,104 return buses during Ganeshotsav, incurring a loss of ₹11.68 crore due to empty return runs. With 5,000 buses being planned for this year, the financial impact could go up to ₹16 crore if the majority of bookings remain one-way.
