The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has launched four special bus tours to key spiritual and historic destinations across the state. The corporation is coordinating this initiative with private operators to ease travel planning and ensure seamless execution for devotees and tourists.
Affordable Pilgrimage and Heritage Tours Start This Month
MSRTC’s initiative aims to make spiritual travel more affordable. It will offer subsidized accommodation and meals, where applicable, under temple trust arrangements. The tours will focus on destinations such as Pandharpur, Akkalkot, Tuljapur, Trimbakeshwar, Shirdi, and Nashik. Officials emphasize discounted rates, especially during the holy Shravan month and other festive periods.
Public-Private Collaboration Ensures Smooth Operations
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik urged private companies to partner with MSRTC for operation and logistics support. He stated that joint services allow efficient route planning and reduce overhead costs. MSRTC will handle scheduling, while private partners may provide additional amenities and manage on-site services. The corporation will oversee quality control to maintain service standards.
Special Buses Cater to Religious Yatras and Women Senior Citizens
In line with the new service, MSRTC plans to deploy over 5,200 special buses for upcoming pilgrimages like the Ashadhi Ekadashi Yatra to Pandharpur. These buses will run directly from villages across Maharashtra, ensuring wider coverage for devotees. Services will include support under state schemes such as free or discounted travel for senior citizens and women.
The tours will roll out from major depots, including Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, with ticket booking available online and offline. Travelers can expect scheduled pick-ups, planned rest stops, and coordinated guide services alongside basic travel amenities.
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