‘Improve performance or face demotion’: Maharashtra government to road transport officials

Officials at the depot, divisional, regional, and headquarters levels will be evaluated on measures such as trip planning, passenger growth, revenue generation, local innovation, and bus utilisation. Those who fail to show measurable improvement will face disciplinary action once the review period ends.

The government has also set up a special investigation team (SIT), headed by the general manager (information technology), to look into possible misappropriation or financial irregularities.

“MSRTC is the lifeline of the common people of Maharashtra, and every official must understand the responsibility that comes with managing this public service,” Sarnaik said.

He added that the government had already cleared several long-pending financial dues owed to employees, and that the onus was now on the management and officers to translate this support into real improvement in the Corporation’s finances, rather than confining efforts to meetings and paperwork.

The minister said, “Officers who worked sincerely would have the government’s full backing, but made clear that inefficiency and inaction would not be tolerated. After one month, every official’s performance will be reviewed, and if the expected results are not achieved, strict disciplinary action, including transfers, demotions, or suspension, will be taken wherever necessary.”

In fiscal year 2025-26, MSRTC recorded a loss of Rs 591 crore; the operational revenue realised was Rs 11,475 crore, while the expenditure was Rs 12,066 crore. MSRTC faced Rs 1.6 crore daily losses in FY 25-26.