01 June,2026 10:52 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Pratap Sarnaik takes part in an event of MSRTC`s 78th Foundation Day in Mumbai
On the occasion of the 78th Foundation Day of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik on Monday called upon the entire ST workforce to work towards building a "Clean ST, Green ST and Economically Efficient ST."
Marking the anniversary of the state-run transport body, Sarnaik announced a large-scale campaign focused on environmental conservation, cleanliness and fuel savings across Maharashtra.
As part of the initiative, the MSRTC has launched a statewide drive to plant 78,000 trees this year. The campaign will involve every bus depot, bus station and employee across the state.
Speaking about the initiative, Sarnaik, in a statement, said that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility and not just the government's duty. He added that the corporation will spread the message of "One Tree - One Life" among citizens through the campaign.
The minister also announced that the "Clean ST - Beautiful ST" initiative will now be implemented on a wider scale.
Under the drive, special emphasis will be laid on maintaining cleanliness at bus depots, bus stations, buses and rest houses for drivers and conductors. Sarnaik said ensuring clean, safe and comfortable travel for passengers remains the corporation's top priority.
The statement highlighted the need for financial discipline within the corporation.
Sarnaik said every depot has been instructed to save at least five litres of diesel daily.
He noted that small fuel savings could collectively strengthen the corporation financially while also helping reduce pollution levels across the state.
The minister appealed to officers and employees to actively participate in the campaign and ensure its successful implementation.
Calling the iconic red buses of the MSRTC a lifeline of Maharashtra, Sarnaik, in a statement, said the corporation has connected remote villages, tribal belts, rural areas, cities and metropolitan regions for the past 78 years.
He credited the corporation's long journey to the dedication of lakhs of officers, employees, drivers, conductors, retired staff members and passengers.
The minister further stressed the need to modernise the corporation through digital services, green initiatives, financial discipline and passenger-centric facilities in the coming years.
Extending greetings on the foundation day, Sarnaik urged the entire ST family to collectively contribute towards cleanliness, environmental conservation, fuel efficiency and better passenger services.
