After successive hikes in milk, CNG, and now petrol and diesel prices, concerns are mounting over another possible increase — this time in Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus fares. The recent diesel price rise is expected to place an additional financial burden of nearly Rs 125 crore on the corporation. Amid growing discussions over whether ST bus ticket prices will also be revised, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has hinted that difficult decisions may soon become unavoidable. Reports suggest that Sarnaik recently conducted online meetings following appeals made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and instructions issued by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding the financial sustainability of the transport corporation.
Speaking to the media, Pratap Sarnaik said that although some decisions may appear harsh, they would have to be taken in view of rising inflation and the growing operational burden on the corporation. He stated that MSRTC must ensure salaries for nearly one lakh employees while continuing transport services across the state. He said that over 14,250 buses are currently operating on Maharashtra’s roads, making it essential to keep the corporation financially stable. Sarnaik indicated that if inflation continues at the present pace, the administration may have to take corrective measures to ensure the long-term survival and smooth functioning of the state-run transport network and its passenger services.
The minister also explained the financial assistance received by MSRTC from the Maharashtra government for various welfare schemes offered to passengers. He said that the government reimburses the corporation for concessions provided to women travellers, as well as free travel schemes for persons with disabilities and several socially disadvantaged groups. Similarly, the state compensates MSRTC for offering free bus travel to senior citizens above 75 years of age. Despite these subsidies, Sarnaik stressed that the corporation ultimately needs to become financially self-reliant. He added that the transport body regularly seeks funds from the government for purchasing new buses, upgrading bus stations, carrying out repairs, and improving passenger amenities across the state.
Pratap Sarnaik further announced that MSRTC has set a target of converting its entire fleet to electric buses by 2035 as part of a long-term sustainability plan. He said that although around 8,000 diesel buses have already been purchased, future investments will mainly focus on electric vehicles. The corporation is also planning large-scale infrastructure development to support this transition. Sarnaik revealed that a tender process is underway to establish EV charging stations at nearly 200 MSRTC locations across Maharashtra. During a cabinet meeting, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was reportedly informed that unused spaces beneath bridges managed by agencies such as MMRDA, PWD, MSRDC, and municipal corporations could be allocated for setting up public EV charging stations.