'MSRTC To Run 5,000 Additional Buses To Konkan For Ganesh Chaturthi,' Says State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik

Mumbai: As the arrival of Lord Ganesha is scheduled for August 27, 2025, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to operate 5,000 additional buses between August 23 and September 7 to facilitate travel to Konkan for the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik made the announcement during a review meeting held at Mantralaya. The meeting was attended by MSRTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar and other senior officials.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sarnaik said, “Ganesh Utsav is an emotionally significant festival for Konkan residents working in Mumbai. There is an unbreakable bond between Ganpati Bappa, the Konkan migrant community, and the MSRTC. Every year, regardless of profit or loss, MSRTC serves these devotees by operating special buses.”

This year, approximately 5,000 extra buses will ply the Konkan routes. Passengers can book these buses via the official website npublic.msrtcors.com, at MSRTC bus depots, or through the MSRTC Bus Reservation app.

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MSRTC had previously received a tremendous response for operating 5,200 extra buses during the recently concluded Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage. Encouraged by the success, the corporation has decided to provide 5,000 additional buses for the Ganesh festival as well.

Group Reservations from July 22, Concessions for Women and Senior Citizens

In addition to individual bookings, group reservations will be available starting July 22. MSRTC will offer 100% fare concession for 'Amrut' senior citizens, and 50% fare discount for senior citizens and women.

Starting August 23, these special buses will depart from key bus depots in Mumbai, Thane, and Palghar regions. Last year, around 4,300 extra buses were deployed for the festival.

To ensure smooth operations during the festival, MSRTC officials and staff will be stationed round-the-clock at bus depots and halts. Roadside vehicle repair teams will also be deployed at various locations along Konkan highways.