In response to the severe flooding triggered by the retreating monsoon across Maharashtra, the state government has withdrawn the planned 10% festive season fare hike for Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus services. The move was announced on Wednesday by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, acting on directives from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The minister was quoted as saying that the government’s decision was taken in view of the hardships citizens were already facing due to the floods. He added that the administration remained committed to ensuring public transport remained affordable and accessible during such times of crisis.
Reports indicated that MSRTC had earlier declared a 10% fare increase for the Diwali travel period, from October 15 to November 5, covering most services except the air-conditioned Shivneri and Shivai buses. While the State Transport Authority permits fare increases of up to 30% during festive seasons, the rollback was ordered to ease the financial strain on commuters.
The cancellation of the hike has come as a relief for citizens who were already burdened by both economic and logistical challenges caused by widespread flooding. It was noted that MSRTC operates nearly 15,000 buses, connecting over 90% of Maharashtra’s villages with major towns and district headquarters. More than 50 lakh passengers depend on the service every day.
By keeping fares unchanged, the government has sought to provide immediate financial relief and ensure uninterrupted connectivity during the upcoming Diwali festival. The decision was widely seen as a timely intervention, offering reassurance to commuters and reinforcing the state’s role in safeguarding public welfare during a natural disaster.
Analysts observed that the step reflected the administration’s sensitivity to the situation, especially with festival travel approaching. The announcement underscored the importance of state-run transport as a lifeline for millions and positioned the cancellation as both a humanitarian measure and a symbolic gesture of solidarity with affected citizens.
With Diwali just weeks away, the fare freeze is expected to benefit lakhs of families travelling for festive reunions, ensuring they are spared an additional financial burden during a period of widespread distress. The government’s action has thus been viewed as a significant relief measure amid the flood-hit state’s ongoing recovery efforts.
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