MSRTC Adds 40 ‘Lalpari’ AC Electric Buses; Resumes Pune-Mumbai Services After a Year

In a major push to modernize public transport in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has expanded its fleet with 40 new ‘Lalpari’ AC electric buses.

This move is part of MSRTC’s broader initiative to introduce eco-friendly, comfortable travel options across the state. A key highlight of this development is the resumption of the Pune-Mumbai AC electric bus service (Shivshahi-Volvo), which had been suspended for the past year.

Also Read: MSRTC Issues E-Tender to Procure 3000 Buses for Fleet Expansion

Pune-Mumbai Route Revived

The Pune-Mumbai route has seen the return of air-conditioned bus services after a year-long suspension. Two buses each from Baramati and Indapur depots have been deployed on this vital inter-city route, ensuring more travel options and comfort for commuters.

The earlier suspension of services was due to the retirement of aging buses and RTO action against them.

Why the Upgrade?

Over the past year, more than 300 aging buses across MSRTC’s fleet have been decommissioned, including 72 Shivneri and Shivshahi buses, which were previously active on the Mumbai route.

These older buses were flagged by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) for exceeding their service lifespan, leading to the temporary suspension of some routes.

Route-Wise Plan of ‘Lalpari’ AC Electric Buses

MSRTC has planned a structured rollout of the new buses across key routes. Here’s how the 40 new buses are being allocated across different depots:

Key Highlights

• Resumption of the Pune-Mumbai air-conditioned bus service after a one-year halt.
• 40 new electric AC buses added under the ‘Lalpari’ category.
• Structured route allocation from Baramati, Indapur, Shivajinagar, and Swargate depots.
• Focus on commuter convenience and eco-friendly transport solutions.

Also Read: MSRTC Increases Ticket Prices by 14.95% Starting Today

Better Connectivity and Passenger Comfort

With this addition, MSRTC aims to:

• Improve travel convenience across inter-state and key regional routes
• Provide modern, air-conditioned electric buses for greater passenger comfort
• Enhance reliability and service frequency from depots like Baramati, Indapur, Swargate, and Shivajinagar