Travelers using the electric luxury e-Shivneri buses between Mumbai and Pune will soon receive a more personalized service, thanks to the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). The corporation recently announced plans to deploy attendants, called "Shivneri Sundari," to offer an air hostess-like service for passengers on these buses.
Key Features of the 'Shivneri Sundari' Service
The MSRTC’s new chairman, Bharat Gogawale, revealed that this initiative aims to enhance the travel experience on the busy 200-km route between Mumbai and Pune. The attendants will provide essential travel-related information, assist with passenger queries, and take suggestions.
In addition, the 'Shivneri Sundari' will offer basic amenities such as water, newspapers, and magazines, as well as provide basic medical assistance. However, no food will be served on board.
Other responsibilities include ensuring the cleanliness of the bus during the journey, monitoring air conditioning and temperature for comfort, and promptly reporting any technical issues to the driver or MSRTC authorities.
No Increase in Ticket Prices
According to MSRTC, the introduction of the 'Shivneri Sundari' attendants will not result in any increase in ticket prices for commuters. The service is expected to create a more enjoyable travel experience without additional cost.
The e-Shivneri buses operate as a point-to-point service with only the driver on board, while conductors issue tickets at designated stops along the route. The attendants will be seated in the front row and will have a small cabinet for storing necessary supplies.
MSRTC Expands Fleet and Moves Towards Electric Buses
The MSRTC board has also approved the procurement of 2,500 new buses and has begun the tender process. Additionally, the corporation is planning a pilot project to convert 100 diesel buses to electric, and a larger project to convert 5,000 diesel-run buses to liquefied natural gas (LNG) operation is already underway.
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