MSRTC To Run 5,000 Extra Buses For Ganeshotsav 2025; Group Bookings Start July 22

To accommodate the heavy travel demand during Ganeshotsav 2025, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will run 5,000 additional buses between August 23 and September 7, primarily for passengers from Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and nearby areas heading to Konkan.

The announcement was made by Maharashtra Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik during a key meeting at Mantralaya, which included VC and MD Dr. Madhav Kusekar and other senior MSRTC officials.

Minister Sarnaik emphasized the cultural and emotional bond between Konkan residents, Ganpati Bappa, and the state transport service. "The bond between Konkan, Ganpati Bappa and ST is sacred. Every year, we run special buses regardless of profit or loss," he stated.

Reservations for the special buses can be made starting July 22 for group bookings, either via the MSRTC website (npublic.msrtcors.com), the official mobile app, or at bus depots. The buses will operate from major urban centers including Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar.

To promote inclusive travel, MSRTC has announced special fare concessions: a 100% fare waiver for senior citizens, and a 50% discount for Amrut senior citizens and women.

This year's plan surpasses last year's Ganeshotsav arrangements, which saw 4,300 extra buses. The decision to scale up was also influenced by the successful handling of the Ashadhi Ekadashi Yatra, where MSRTC deployed 5,200 additional buses and received a strong public response.

To ensure smooth travel during the festival season, repair teams will be strategically stationed along Konkan's key highways, and 24/7 staff support will be available at major bus stations and halts under the supervision of senior MSRTC officers.