200 Volvo Buses in pipeline: MSRTC to launch Shivneri bus service on 8 new routes across state

The proposed new routes include Nashik-Pune, Nashik-Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nashik-Jalgaon-Dhule, Pune-Kolhapur, Pune-Sangli, Pune-Solapur, Nagpur-Chandrapur, and Nagpur-Amravati-Akola. These additions aim to give passengers in different parts of the state access to a safe, reliable, and comfortable travel option.

Of the 200 new buses being procured, 30 will be sleeper coaches. MSRTC plans to introduce the ‘Sleeper Shivneri’ on long-distance routes where non-air-conditioned sleeper buses currently operate, offering passengers a significantly upgraded experience with modern bed-coach facilities, enhanced safety features, and new-age technology.

e-Shivneri

On the green mobility front, MSRTC’s electric e-Shivneri buses are already operational and receiving satisfactory responses from commuters. The service currently runs on six routes, including Dadar-Swargate, Dadar-Shivajinagar, Borivali-Swargate, Borivali-Shivajinagar, Thane-Swargate, and Thane-Shivajinagar.

Shivneri offers concessional fares for certain passenger groups. Women travellers and senior citizens aged 65 to 75 are eligible for a 50 per cent discount on ticket fares. For senior citizens above 75 years, travel on Shivneri is entirely free of charge. Sarnaik expressed confidence that these concessions will drive strong ridership on the new routes as well.

Responding to the development, Sarnaik said, “The Shivneri fleet expansion is more than just an increase in bus services, and it is a new direction for Maharashtra’s evolving travel culture.”