Shivshahi Bus Service Ending: MSRTC Clarifies Amid Rumors and Safety Concerns

MSRTC confirms continued operation of Shivshahi buses despite media reports of discontinuation.

Amid growing concerns and media reports regarding the discontinuation of the Shivshahi Bus Service, Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has officially clarified that it has no plans to shut down the service. The clarification comes after mounting complaints related to maintenance issues and operational difficulties, which sparked rumors about the service’s future.

खुलासा..
एसटी महामंडळाकडे सध्या ७९२ शिवशाही(वातानुकूलित )बसेस चालना मध्ये आहेत. त्यामध्ये कोणताही तांत्रिक दोष नाही. तसेच सदर बसेस या बंद करण्याचा एसटी महामंडळाचा कोणताही विचार नाही.

(जनसंपर्क अधिकारी) pic.twitter.com/CyrIINKV0Q

— Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (@msrtcofficial) December 2, 2024

Proposal to Discontinue Service

Recently, the MSRTC’s traffic department proposed discontinuing the Shivshahi service following rising complaints from both drivers and passengers. These complaints mainly involved problems with vehicle maintenance, inadequate repairs, and challenges in the conduct of contractor drivers. Reports mentioned that several drivers had been involved in arbitrary halts, rude behavior towards passengers, and improper interactions with MSRTC staff.

As a result, the proposal to convert Shivshahi buses into non-air-conditioned “Lalpari” buses was approved by the MSRTC mechanical department. This conversion involves removing the air-conditioning systems, replacing glass windows, and redesigning the seats.

Currently, 892 Shivshahi buses are in operation, with 500 active in service and 392 under repair. The phased withdrawal and conversion of the buses will take place in the coming months.

MSRTC Clarifies: Service Will Continue

Despite rumors suggesting the end of the service, MSRTC has confirmed that the Shivshahi buses will continue to operate. The ST Corporation, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), clarified that there are no technical faults with the buses, and they have no intention of discontinuing them. Instead, MSRTC is focused on addressing operational challenges, including improving maintenance, ensuring better driver conduct, and enhancing safety measures.

MSRTC’s response emphasizes their commitment to improving services and providing passengers with affordable, air-conditioned long-distance travel options.

The Rise of Shivshahi Buses

Launched on June 10, 2017, the Shivshahi service quickly gained popularity, particularly among women travelers, due to affordable fares and half-ticket concessions. The service was designed as a comfortable and budget-friendly alternative for long-distance travel, starting with the route between Mumbai and Rajgiri. Over time, the Shivshahi buses became a preferred choice for many commuters seeking a reliable and affordable means of transportation.

A Call for Reforms

While the recent controversies have raised valid concerns, they also underscore the need for reform in MSRTC’s operations. The focus on improving bus maintenance, driver conduct, and service quality is essential for maintaining the trust of passengers. MSRTC’s statement reflects its dedication to addressing these challenges while ensuring that services continue uninterrupted.

Passengers can be reassured that the Shivshahi bus service will remain in operation, with improvements on the horizon to address ongoing concerns.