Pune: In a bid to make Diwali travel easier for bus passengers, the Pune Division of Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has launched a new service providing contact numbers of 90 supervisors for inquiries, along with a dedicated WhatsApp helpline.

Passengers can now access real-time information on bus locations, departure times, and other details within five minutes by messaging the WhatsApp helpline.

The initiative by MSRTC Pune Division is aimed at easing travel for passengers at major hubs like Swargate and Wakdewadi bus stations.

For passengers with reserved tickets, MSRTC has also released contact numbers for bus station staff in destination cities, allowing travelers to check on the status and arrival of their reserved buses.

For instance, travelers from Swargate to Solapur or from Wakdewadi to Amravati can now call the staff at their destination to get updates.

The dedicated WhatsApp number 8766054235 has been set up to further assist passengers. By sending a message with their bus details, passengers will receive timely information within a few minutes.

MSRTC Controller Pramod Nehul confirmed that the new services will help passengers access bus information conveniently, even from home.

MSRTC had announced plans to operate approximately 350 extra buses outside the scheduled timetable. This initiative is particularly aimed at helping passengers return to their native villages. A temporary bus station is currently being set up at Khadki due to the anticipated high volume of travelers heading to Marathwada.