Shivneri Sundari: Service Launched on Mumbai-Pune Buses at No Additional Charge for Passengers Â
Shivneri Sundari: Service Launched on Mumbai-Pune Buses at No Additional Charge for Passengers Â
Passengers traveling between Mumbai and Pune on the E-Shivneri buses will soon enjoy an enhanced travel experience with the introduction of the “Shivneri Sundari” service. Inspired by airline hospitality, this new service will offer passengers the same warmth and care typically provided by flight attendants, all at no additional cost. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) aims to elevate the quality of service with this initiative, ensuring passengers feel comfortable and well-cared for during their journey.
The decision to implement the “Shivneri Sundari” service was made during the 304th MSRTC board meeting, led by Bharat Gogawale, the newly appointed Chairman. More than 70 crucial topics were discussed and approved, including the deployment of Sundari attendants on the E-Shivneri buses. These attendants will greet and assist passengers, adding a touch of personalized service to bus travel.
No Extra Cost for Enhanced Services
Despite offering premium services comparable to air travel, the MSRTC has ensured that passengers will not face any extra charges for this added convenience. The “Shivneri Sundari” attendants will enhance the overall experience by providing top-notch hospitality, making long-distance travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
Additional Initiatives Approved
During the same meeting, the MSRTC also announced the establishment of “Anand Arogya Kendras” (Anand Health Centers) at 343 ST bus stations across Maharashtra. These centers, named after the late Anand Dighe and conceptualized by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, will provide healthcare services to passengers and local residents. Services will include diagnostic tests and medicines offered at affordable rates. The centers will be housed within the bus stations, with clinics, pathology labs, and pharmacies set up in dedicated 400 to 500 square centimeter spaces.
Expansion of Services to Tribal Areas
Further initiatives discussed at the meeting include expanding MSRTC services to tribal-dominated areas. New depots will be constructed in Mul (Chandrapur district) and Dharni (Amravati district), increasing the total number of ST depots in Maharashtra to 253. This expansion aims to improve accessibility and transportation services in remote regions.
Supporting Women’s Self-Help Groups
To promote local businesses, the MSRTC has approved the installation of 10×10 stalls at bus stations for women’s self-help groups to sell traditional and regional food items. These stalls will be offered at minimal rent on a rotational basis, giving local women a platform to promote their products and earn a livelihood.
Fleet Expansion and Electrification
The MSRTC board also approved the procurement of 2,500 new buses as part of their fleet expansion. In line with sustainable practices, a pilot project will also be initiated to convert 100 diesel buses into electric ones, marking a step toward greener transportation solutions.
The meeting was attended by several key officials, including ST Corporation Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, and representatives from various departments. These initiatives signal MSRTC’s commitment to enhancing passenger services, expanding operations, and supporting local communities across Maharashtra.
