Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik declared that special travel concessions on Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses will now be extended not only to women but also to men. The decision, revealed during a recent press briefing, marks a significant shift toward inclusivity and affordability in the state’s public transport policy.
Traditionally, travel concessions on MSRTC buses have been reserved for women, senior citizens, students, and certain other groups. However, recognizing the financial pressures faced by all sections of society, Minister Sarnaik announced an extension of these benefits to male passengers as well. The move is expected to ease the burden on daily wage earners, farmers, and rural commuters who rely heavily on state-run buses for their livelihood and essential travel.
Sarnaik emphasized, “Public transport should be accessible and affordable for everyone, regardless of gender. This new policy ensures that men, too, can avail themselves of special fare concessions, making travel across Maharashtra more equitable.”
While the exact percentage of the concession and eligibility criteria are expected to be outlined in the coming days, sources indicate that the new scheme will mirror existing benefits currently offered to women and other groups. The concessions may include:
Reduced fares on select routes and during off-peak hours
Special passes for daily and monthly commuters
Additional discounts for senior citizens and students, regardless of gender
The transport department is also considering digital passes and simplified application processes to ensure that more people can easily benefit from the scheme.
This announcement comes at a time when MSRTC is undergoing a major transformation. The corporation has embarked on a ₹10,000 crore fleet modernization drive, including the induction of thousands of new electric and diesel buses. The state government has also approved the purchase of 25,000 new buses over the next five years, aiming to improve connectivity to every village in Maharashtra.
Additionally, Sarnaik has introduced other welfare measures, such as a one-time grant for senior drivers and plans to develop modern transport hubs across the state. These initiatives are designed to make public transport safer, more reliable, and more accessible for all segments of society.
“Affordable travel is a basic right, and this move will help countless families save on daily expenses,” said a representative of a commuter welfare association in Pune.
The transport ministry is expected to release detailed guidelines soon, including the start date, concession rates, and application procedures. MSRTC officials have assured that the rollout will be closely monitored to ensure transparency and prevent misuse.