Maharashtra launches statewide crackdown on illegal passenger transport near MSRTC bus stations

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik

The Maharashtra government on Saturday, June 6, launched a special statewide crackdown on illegal passenger transport operating in the vicinity of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus stations. While issuing an official statement, the government highlighted that strict action will be taken against violators found within a 200-metre radius of State Transport (ST) depots.

Announcing the initiative, Maharashtra Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik said, "A joint enforcement drive will be carried out across the state from June 5 to June 15, 2026, to curb unauthorised passenger transport and protect the interests of the state-run transport undertaking."

Regular inspections and enforcement are to be carried out at ST depots

A circular issued by the ST Corporation's Security and Vigilance Department has directed officials to conduct coordinated inspections and enforcement activities at bus stations across Maharashtra.

The campaign launched by the State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik follows directives issued by the Aurangabad Bench of the Bombay High Court regarding illegal passenger transport.

Under the drive, private vehicles will not be allowed to stop for picking up or dropping off passengers within 200 metres of any ST bus station. Authorities have further warned that those violating the rules will face stringent action.

Sarnaik also said that illegal passenger transport adversely affects the ST Corporation's revenue and compromises passenger safety.

"The ST Corporation is the lifeline of the common people of Maharashtra. Illegal passenger transport that causes financial losses to the corporation and endangers passenger safety will not be tolerated under any circumstances," Sarnaik added.

The minister also noted that unauthorised transport activities around bus stations have contributed to overcrowding, traffic congestion and safety concerns, making the special enforcement campaign necessary.

The drive will involve divisional transport officers, depot managers, transport inspectors, assistant transport inspectors, transport controllers, and officers and supervisors from the Security and Vigilance Department. Joint teams have been instructed to conduct regular inspections and initiate immediate action against offending vehicles.

Department heads have also been directed to ensure effective implementation of the campaign in their respective jurisdictions and submit detailed compliance reports to the MSRTC headquarters.

Maharashtra government focuses on providing safe and convenient public travel services across the state

Sarnaik urged divisional controllers, regional managers and enforcement officials to treat the campaign as a public service initiative rather than a routine administrative exercise.

"Providing safe, disciplined and quality transport services to passengers is the primary objective of the ST Corporation. Illegal passenger transport not only affects the corporation's finances but also raises serious concerns about commuter safety. The administration must work in coordination to strictly enforce the law and eliminate such activities around bus station premises," he said.

Sarnaik also expressed confidence that the special drive would bring greater discipline to bus station areas, safeguard ST Corporation revenues and ensure safer and better-organised transport facilities for passengers across the state.