MSRTC to Run 5,000 Extra Buses for Ganeshotsav 2025; Group Bookings Start July 22

Mumbai, July 15: In a major step to facilitate festive travel during Ganeshotsav 2025, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced it will operate 5,000 additional buses between August 23 and September 7, especially for devotees travelling from Mumbai and surrounding regions to Konkan. The initiative is aimed at ensuring smooth and safe travel for thousands of Ganpati devotees heading home to celebrate the festival.

The announcement was made by State Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik during a review meeting held at Mantralaya with senior MSRTC officials, including VC and MD Dr. Madhav Kusekar.

Highlighting the cultural and emotional significance of the festival, Minister Sarnaik said, “The bond between Konkan, Ganpati Bappa, and the ST buses is sacred. Serving devotees during Ganeshotsav is a tradition MSRTC proudly maintains, regardless of profit or loss.”

Key Highlights:

• 5000 extra buses will be operational between August 23 – September 7 from Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and other divisions to various Konkan destinations.

• Group bookings for these special buses will commence from July 22, both online and at MSRTC depots.

• Tickets can be booked through the official website npublic.msrtcors.com, the MSRTC mobile app, or directly at bus depots.

• The scheme includes 100% fare waiver for senior citizens, and 50% discounts for Amrut senior citizens and women passengers.

To manage the large-scale operations, MSRTC will deploy extra staff, repair teams, and round-the-clock support at major depots and along key Konkan highways. Senior officers will be supervising all arrangements to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

This year’s rollout of 5,000 buses surpasses last year’s 4,300 special services, and draws inspiration from the Ashadhi Ekadashi Yatra, where MSRTC successfully operated 5,200 buses and received an overwhelming public response.

With this expanded fleet and improved services, MSRTC aims to uphold its commitment to supporting the traditions of Konkan and easing travel stress during one of Maharashtra’s most beloved festivals.