Maharashtra Govt Rolls Out 8,300 New Buses: MSRTC Set To Recover Financially And Boost Connectivity
Maharashtra Govt Rolls Out 8,300 New Buses: MSRTC Set To Recover Financially And Boost Connectivity
Mumbai, February 20, 2026: In a major boost for the financially stressed Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), the state government has approved the induction of 8,300 new buses this year, aiming to strengthen operations and improve revenue.
The move comes as the corporation currently faces daily losses of ₹1–1.5 crore, with expenses of ₹34–35 crore against daily revenue of around ₹33 crore. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik emphasized that increasing the bus fleet would not only enhance passenger service but also help bridge the financial gap, setting MSRTC on a path to sustainable operations.
New Fleet Details
As part of the first phase of expansion, the 8,300 buses will include:
- 3,000 semi-luxury 3×2 seating buses (55 seats) – Named “Rajmata Jijau Saheb,” these buses will operate on high-density city routes from March onward.
- 5,000 standard buses – Procurement process in final stages, intended to improve city and regional connectivity.
- 100 midi buses – Designed to serve remote and tribal areas.
- 200 modern buses – Equipped to compete with private transport services.
Once operational, the expanded fleet is expected to serve 70–75 lakh passengers daily, significantly boosting MSRTC’s revenue streams.
Long-Term Strategy
According to MSRTC’s long-term plan, the state aims to acquire 20,000–25,000 buses over the coming years, a strategy that has received preliminary approval from the state government. The induction of new buses is expected to stabilize finances, reduce daily losses, and make the corporation more robust in delivering public transport services across Maharashtra.
Minister Pratap Sarnaik said, “The ‘Lalpari’ will soon soar again with new buses, better services, and stronger financial footing. By the end of this year, we are confident MSRTC will emerge from its financial slump.”
