MSRTC announces start of Shivneri buses for Mantralaya staff in Pune

Pramod Nehul, divisional collector of Pune, said that a significant number of employees had been demanding a dedicated State Transport (ST) bus service from the bus stand. “The direct office service will run every Monday early morning from Pune and will return on Friday at 6:30 PM,” he said.

A Mantralaya official from Kothrud mentioned they currently face challenges reaching work on time every Monday, as many stay in Kothrud, Chandni Chowk and other areas. “If the buses depart from Swargate directly to the office location via Atal Setu, it will save us time and we will reach our office on time,” he said.

Another regular commuter from Swargate noted that the currently available transport options, such as the Deccan and Pragati Express trains, often do not arrive on time, resulting in delays in reaching the office. “Moreover, the other ST buses get booked fast due to other passengers travelling as well resulting in the unavailability of seats for Mantralaya employees. Therefore, there was a need for one dedicated bus,” he said.

The ticket price for each person will be Rs 565, with a 50 per cent concession for women and senior citizens aged 65 to 75 years. It will be free for those above 75 years of age. The employees have, however, urged MSRTC to lower the ticket price to between Rs 400 and Rs 500.

Nehul also mentioned that the bus will operate through the Atal Setu route, shortening the travel time and making it convenient for the employees.