Maharashtra Govt Unveils MSRTC Modernisation Plan: 25,000 New Buses, 840 Bus Depots to Become ‘Bus Ports’

Mumbai, July 4 – In a major push towards transforming the state’s public transport infrastructure, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced a wide-ranging modernisation plan for the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) in the Legislative Council this week.

The plan includes the addition of 25,000 new buses, including 5,150 electric buses, over the next five years, significantly overhauling the current fleet of approximately 14,500 buses, most of which are outdated.

Sarnaik also declared that all 840 MSRTC bus depots across the state will be revamped into state-of-the-art ‘bus ports’, equipped with modern passenger and staff amenities. “The transformation will be carried out through a transparent and competitive tendering process,” he assured the House.

The announcement came in response to a half-hour discussion on the condition of the state’s transport system, raised by Council members Adv. Anil Parab, Shashikant Shinde, Sadabhau Khot, and others.

As part of the initiative, cleanliness and hygiene at depots will be a key focus. All upgraded bus ports will feature e-toilets, along with hot water facilities and laundry services for drivers and conductors. The government aims to replicate the success of Gujarat’s bus port model, which has significantly improved commuter satisfaction and service standards.

“We are committed to building a modern and efficient public transport network that caters to both urban and rural Maharashtra,” Sarnaik stated.

In a bid to reduce operational costs and environmental impact, the minister highlighted the government’s move towards electrification of the MSRTC fleet. He noted that the ST Corporation currently spends nearly ₹33,000 crore annually on diesel, and the introduction of electric buses will be a step toward long-term sustainability.

The development of e-toilets and other sanitation facilities will be supported using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, further easing the financial burden on the state.

With this ambitious plan, the Maharashtra government is aiming to set a new benchmark in public transport infrastructure, promising improved services, better working conditions for transport staff, and a cleaner, greener travel experience for citizens across the state.