State-Run ‘Chhava Ride App’ to Launch Soon in Maharashtra for Safer, Fairer Travel
State-Run 'Chhava Ride App' to Launch Soon in Maharashtra for Safer, Fairer Travel
Mumbai, August 5, 2025: Aiming to ensure dignified earnings for drivers and safe travel for passengers, the Maharashtra government is set to launch its official ‘Yatri App’ through the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), announced Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman, Pratap Sarnaik.
Speaking at a meeting held at the Ministry regarding the final draft of the state government’s ‘aggregator policy’ for passenger transport, Sarnaik shared this development. Also present were MLA Pravin Darekar, Additional Chief Secretary of the Transport Department Sanjay Sethi, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, MSRTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar, and other officials.
Minister Sarnaik said that MSRTC’s long-standing trust and commitment toward passengers will benefit the app’s operations, while also opening up a new revenue stream for the corporation.
He emphasized that the app—based on modern technology—will be launched for buses, rickshaws, taxis, and e-buses. The goal is to provide job opportunities for Marathi youth and free both passengers and drivers from the exploitative practices of private ride-hailing companies. The app will be operated by MSRTC with support from the transport department and will serve as a reliable and transparent service for passengers.
It has been unanimously decided to name the app **‘Chhava Ride App’**, and it will be launched soon after final approval from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
Minister Sarnaik further stated that the app’s policy is in its final phase under the Centre’s aggregator guidelines. At present, private companies operate unauthorized apps and earn massive profits by exploiting both drivers and passengers. Given that MSRTC already has the infrastructure, technology, workforce, and facilities, the development of this app will benefit both the public and MSRTC.
MLA Pravin Darekar added that Marathi youth who secure employment through this MSRTC-controlled app will receive financial support from the Mumbai Bank. The bank will provide loans for vehicle purchases at an interest rate of 10%. Additionally, efforts are underway at the government level to provide interest subsidies through various development corporations, effectively making these loans interest-free.
