03 August,2026 03:31 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational image. File pic
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has more than doubled the number of daily bus trips on the Kalyan-Murbad route from 48 to 108, following directions from Maharashtra Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik.
As per the officials, MSRTC's move led to a sharp rise in passenger numbers, with daily ridership increasing from 2,238 to 5,080 commuters.
The decision was taken after local public representatives raised concerns over inadequate bus services on the busy route, stating that the limited number of ST buses was unable to meet growing commuter demand. The shortage of services had reportedly forced many passengers to rely on unauthorised transport operators.
According to the Transport Department, the issue gained urgency after a fatal accident involving illegal transport services, prompting Sarnaik to intervene and direct the immediate expansion of ST operations on the route.
Following the increase in services, the number of daily trips has risen from 48 to 108, while average daily passenger traffic has more than doubled to 5,080 commuters.
The officials further asserted that the move has been initiated to improve passenger comfort. Furthermore, MSRTC has also introduced its new 'Rajmata Jijau' buses on the Kalyan-Murbad route. The corporation said the modern buses have received a positive response from commuters.
The expanded service has also improved connectivity for passengers traveling from Murbad and Saralgaon. Commuters can now board and alight from ST buses operated by multiple depots passing through the Kalyan-Murbad corridor towards destinations including Umbar and Ahilyanagar, reducing travel inconvenience for residents in the region.
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said that the government's priority was to provide safe, reliable, and punctual public transport to citizens.
Sarnaik added, "Providing safe, reliable, and punctual public transport to passengers is the ST's top priority. We will continue our efforts to deliver robust, high-quality service to citizens by increasing the frequency of ST trips - as needed - on routes where passenger demand is rising. The ST is the lifeline of the common people, and the government is committed to further strengthening its network."
The Transport Department said it will continue reviewing passenger demand on key routes and increase services wherever required to strengthen Maharashtra's public transport network.
