Mumbai-Pune MSRTC Bus Driver Gets Fired for Watching Cricket Match on Phone While Driving

A bus driver was fired by the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) on March 23 for allegedly using his phone to watch a cricket match while operating a vehicle.

According to an official, a passenger submitted state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik a video of the driver, prompting the transport administration to take action.

According to him, the event happened aboard the e-Shivneri bus on the March 22 route between Mumbai and Pune.

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The transport minister received a video clip that a bus passenger had taken of the driver using his phone to watch a cricket match while behind the wheel.

Additionally, the traveler shared the video on social media, naming Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other ministers.

Sarnaik gave senior MSRTC personnel severe instructions right away.

In response to the demand, local authorities fined the private firm that provided the service Rs 5,000 and fired the driver, who worked for a private bus operator, for putting the safety of the passengers at risk. 

"E-Shivneri is a crucial service on the Mumbai-Pune route. This bus carries a number of passengers. The service has an excellent reputation for being accident-free. Drivers who run their vehicles carelessly and put passengers in danger must face harsh consequences," Sarnaik stated.

He emphasised that to guarantee disciplined driving, drivers working for private enterprises under the MSRTC must receive regular training.

There have been concerns about cab and autorickshaw drivers using their phones to view films or matches while operating their vehicles, frequently with earbuds in place. The minister stated that new rules prohibiting such actions will shortly be introduced by the transport department, he said.