MSRTC Declares: Stranded Passengers Can Board Any Bus Without Extra Charges
MSRTC Declares: Stranded Passengers Can Board Any Bus Without Extra Charges
Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has taken a firm step to protect commuters after repeated complaints about service disruptions. Passengers whose buses break down or meet with an accident are now allowed to continue their journey on any available ST bus—including Ordinary, Semi-Luxury, Air-Conditioned, Shiv Shahi, E-Shivai, or Shivneri—without paying extra. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has warned that drivers and conductors who deny access or demand fare differences will face strict disciplinary action.
MSRTC rules mandate that whenever a bus, whether ordinary, semi-luxury, luxury, or AC, suffers a technical breakdown mid-route, stranded passengers must be immediately provided an alternative bus service on the same route at no additional cost. Special attention is to be given to travelers on ordinary “Lal Pari” buses, with conductors responsible for arranging suitable replacement services according to passengers’ needs.
Despite these clear orders, complaints have emerged from regions including Solapur, Dharashiv, Beed, Satara, Kolhapur, Sangli, Nashik, Sangamner, and Akola. Ordinary passengers have reportedly been denied entry into premium buses such as Shiv Shahi, E-Shivai, and Shivneri, or asked to pay ₹100–₹130 extra. Such incidents have caused frustration, particularly for daily wage workers and students, who see these practices as unfair and humiliating.
Transport Minister Sarnaik stressed, “Arranging immediate alternative transport is as important as running the bus itself. Harassing passengers or forcing them to pay extra fare will not be tolerated and will result in strict action.”
MSRTC operates a mix of older buses, many nearing or exceeding their service life, especially on rural and interior routes. These buses are more prone to technical failures, putting ordinary passengers at a disadvantage. On some routes, like Pune–Solapur and Mumbai–Kolhapur, AC buses operate without conductors, which has reportedly led to passengers being denied access even when seats are available.
Passengers affected by breakdowns often face long delays. Sakshi Jadhav, traveling on the Solapur route, said, “Our Lal Pari bus broke down, and even though a Shiv Shahi bus with empty seats arrived, we were told to pay extra or get down. Many of us are daily wage workers or students, and it felt humiliating. We just want a smooth journey.”
Under the revised MSRTC directive, passengers can use their original ticket to board any alternative bus without additional charges. A grievance redressal system has been set up, allowing passengers who face obstruction to file complaints with the Depot Manager, Traffic Controller, or Divisional Controller.
The policy aims to address rising complaints amid increased passenger numbers due to discounts for women and senior citizens, ensuring public trust in the transport system. Officials emphasize that providing uninterrupted travel for stranded passengers is not optional—it is a core responsibility of bus staff.
