The directive came during a surprise inspection of the Parel bus depot in Mumbai, where the minister visited restrooms used by drivers and conductors. Officials found empty liquor bottles at several locations, while some staff members were allegedly under the influence of alcohol
Any employee found intoxicated during the test will be suspended immediately.
Maharashtra Transport Minister and State Transport (ST) Corporation chairman Pratap Sarnaik on Sunday directed officials to immediately suspend drivers and other employees found consuming alcohol while on duty, warning that no compromise would be tolerated on passenger safety.
The directive came during a surprise inspection of the Parel bus depot in Mumbai, where the minister visited restrooms used by drivers and conductors. Officials found empty liquor bottles at several locations, while some staff members were allegedly under the influence of alcohol. A visibly upset Sarnaik reprimanded senior officials present at the depot over the lapse.
“Providing proper facilities at restrooms for drivers and conductors posted away from their hometowns is a priority for the government. However, alcohol consumption at such places is not just a case of indiscipline but a serious offence that directly endangers passengers’ lives,” Sarnaik said.
He warned that employees reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol invite accidents and undermine the safety and credibility of ST services. “Such irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated and should lead to dismissal from service after due inquiry,” the minister said.
Sarnaik also held senior officials accountable, stating that negligence by the ST’s safety and vigilance departments encourages indiscipline among staff. He ordered departmental inquiries against concerned safety and vigilance officers and directed strict action against those found responsible.
The minister further instructed that breath analyser tests be made mandatory for all employees reporting for duty, particularly drivers. Any employee found intoxicated during the test should be suspended immediately, he said.
He also ordered the appointment of a separate departmental inquiry committee to investigate the irregularities detected during the inspection and submit a report for further action.
During the visit, Sarnaik reviewed sanitation facilities, cleanliness and bus operations at the depot, and directed officials to remain more vigilant about passenger safety and amenities.
On Balasaheb Thackeray centenary, MSRTC rolls out statewide pilgrimage scheme
On the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of late Balasaheb Thackeray, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) on Thursday launched a statewide religious tourism initiative titled the Hinduhridayasamrat Balasaheb Thackeray — ST Sange Tirtha Yatra scheme. The initiative aims to make pilgrimage travel more accessible, affordable and safe for ordinary citizens across Maharashtra.
Launched under guidance of Deputy CM Eknath Shinde
The scheme was launched under the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, with Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik highlighting its people-centric approach. Addressing the launch, Sarnaik said the initiative reflects a harmonious blend of faith, social justice, convenience and public welfare, while staying true to the legacy and ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray.
Focus on senior citizens, women and weaker sections
According to MSRTC officials, the scheme is founded on the principle of “affordable and safe” travel. Its core objective is to provide organised religious tourism experiences at rates that are within the reach of common travellers, particularly senior citizens, women and economically weaker sections. All existing concessions offered by the state government to various social groups will continue under the new scheme.
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