Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Cancels 30% Fare Hike For Konkan Residents Ahead Of Ganeshotsav

Updated: Thursday, July 24, 2025, 17:45 [IST]

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, has intervened to cancel a planned 30% fare increase on one-way group bookings for Mumbai-based Konkan residents ahead of Ganeshotsav. This decision, announced by Transport Minister and ST Corporation Chairman Pratap Sarnaik, is expected to cost the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) between ₹13 crore and ₹16 crore.

For over 77 years, MSRTC has been a reliable provider of public transport across Maharashtra, especially during high-demand festivals like Ganeshotsav, Ashadhi Yatra, and Holi. This year, the corporation plans to deploy nearly 5,000 additional buses to accommodate the surge of devotees traveling from Mumbai and nearby areas to Konkan.

Financial Challenges During Festivals

Despite offering concessions for senior citizens and women on group bookings, MSRTC faces financial challenges during festivals. Many passengers book one-way trips to Konkan, leaving buses to return empty. This results in extra costs for fuel and staff wages. Additionally, buses are often sourced from other districts, causing temporary shortages locally.

The initial decision to introduce a 30% fare hike was aimed at mitigating losses from running empty return buses. However, following public sentiment and Shinde's suggestion, this fare hike was scrapped. While this move supports public convenience, it will deepen MSRTC's operational losses.

Impact on Operational Losses

In 2023, MSRTC operated 4,330 buses to Konkan and 1,104 return buses during Ganeshotsav. The corporation incurred a loss of ₹11.68 crore due to empty return runs. With plans for 5,000 buses this year, the financial impact could rise to ₹16 crore if most bookings remain one-way.

The cancellation of the fare hike reflects the government's commitment to easing travel for residents during festive times. However, it also highlights the ongoing financial burden faced by MSRTC due to operational challenges during such periods.