The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has withdrawn its plan to increase passenger fares by 10%, which was scheduled to take effect in October and November. The decision, announced on October 14, comes as a relief to passengers, particularly during the festive season, and just ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections.

A circular has been issued to MSRTC’s regional heads, instructing them to halt the proposed fare hike. Initially, the fare increase was set to be implemented from October 25 to November 24, with the aim of generating around Rs.70-80 crore for the cash-strapped public transport body.

An MSRTC official explained that the state government typically permits fare hikes during festive periods, but this year, the state secretariat, Mantralaya, turned down the proposal. Bharat Gogawale, MSRTC’s newly-appointed chairman, had approved the fare hike, but the state government refused to allow it, citing other priorities.

"The cancellation will impose a financial burden on MSRTC, as the corporation is required to pay Rs.40 crore in bonuses to eligible employees before Diwali, in addition to other staff dues," the official said.

On the same day, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a toll exemption for light motor vehicles entering Mumbai, further easing travel costs for residents and visitors.

MSRTC had previously raised fares by 10% during Diwali 2023, from November 8 to 27, due to high demand for state transport services. Operating a fleet of 15,000 buses, MSRTC serves over 5.5 million passengers daily, making it one of India’s largest transport providers.

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