The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced that it will be operating nearly 5,000 extra Ganpati special buses from Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar districts to the Konkan region for the upcoming Ganpati festival. This initiative aims to cater to the massive influx of passengers traveling to their native and coastal areas in Konkan during the 10-day festival, which is set to begin on September 7th.
Increased Bus Services
According to a press release from the state-owned undertaking, a total of 4,953 Ganpati special extra buses will be in operation, with 4,200 buses already booked by various groups. The additional buses will provide much-needed transportation for festival-goers looking to celebrate the auspicious occasion with their loved ones in Konkan.
From Thane, a total of 2,481 buses will be operated, including 2,064 that have been booked by groups. In Mumbai, 1,841 buses will be in service, with 1,578 of them being group-booked, and 417 extra buses. Palghar will see 631 buses in operation, with 558 of them being group bookings and 73 extra buses. This massive fleet of buses will ensure that passengers have multiple options for their journey to the Konkan region.
The overwhelming demand for MSRTC’s services during the Ganpati festival has led to the near-full booking of all available buses, prompting the corporation to consider deploying more special buses to meet the high demand. Last year, around 4,000 Ganpati special bus services were operated by the MSRTC, indicating the growing popularity of this mode of transportation among festival-goers.
Special Fare Discounts
To attract more passengers and make the journey more affordable for everyone, MSRTC has announced substantial fare discounts for the Ganpati special buses. Passengers above 75 years of age will receive a 100% concession in ticket fare, while women will be eligible for a 50% discount on their bus tickets. These discounts aim to make the journey more accessible and inclusive for all passengers, especially those who may face financial constraints.
The availability of these fare discounts coupled with the increased number of buses operating during the festival period will ensure that passengers have a convenient and cost-effective travel option to celebrate Ganpati in the Konkan region. MSRTC is committed to providing a safe and comfortable journey for all passengers, with additional measures in place to enhance the overall travel experience.
Enhanced Services and Amenities
In addition to the increased number of buses and fare discounts, MSRTC is also taking proactive steps to enhance the overall travel experience for passengers. Maintenance vehicles will be stationed along the Mumbai-Goa highway during the four-day period to ensure prompt assistance in case of any breakdowns or emergencies. Temporary toilet facilities will also be provided at various locations along the route to ensure passenger comfort and convenience.
These additional services and amenities reflect MSRTC’s dedication to providing a seamless travel experience for passengers during the busy Ganpati festival period. By prioritizing passenger safety and comfort, the corporation aims to make the journey to Konkan a memorable and enjoyable experience for all festival-goers.
In conclusion, the operation of nearly 5,000 Ganpati special buses by MSRTC from Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar to the Konkan region demonstrates the corporation’s commitment to meeting the high demand for transportation during the festive season. With special fare discounts, enhanced services, and a focus on passenger safety, MSRTC is poised to provide a convenient and comfortable travel option for those looking to celebrate Ganpati in their native and coastal areas.