Here’s Why MSRTC named its New Fleet ‘Rajmata Jijau’

In a move that blends public transport expansion with cultural homage, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is preparing to introduce a new fleet of high-capacity buses under the name ‘Rajmata Jijau’.

The upcoming buses are part of MSRTC’s strategy to tackle increasing passenger volumes on busy routes while reinforcing Maharashtra’s historical and cultural identity through its transport services.

By introducing a larger seating configuration and a visually distinctive design, the corporation aims to enhance commuter convenience while paying tribute to one of the state’s most revered historical figures.

Why MSRTC Named Its New Buses ‘Rajmata Jijau’?

MSRTC has named the new buses after Rajmata Jijabai (Jijau), the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and one of the most influential historical figures in Maharashtra’s history.

Rajmata Jijau is widely respected for shaping Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of Swarajya and instilling leadership values, courage, and administrative foresight.

By naming the buses after her, MSRTC aims to honour her legacy and acknowledge her contribution to Maharashtra’s cultural and historical identity.

The naming also aligns with MSRTC’s tradition of associating transport services with regional pride and historical inspiration.

New 55-Seater Buses to Improve Passenger Capacity

The upcoming ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses feature a 3×2 seating layout, enabling each bus to accommodate 55 seated passengers. This marks a significant upgrade compared to MSRTC’s conventional 2×2 configuration buses, which typically provide around 40 seats.

The increased seating capacity is expected to:

• Reduce overcrowding during peak hours
• Improve passenger comfort
• Lower the number of standing commuters
• Enhance route efficiency on busy intercity corridors

Transport officials believe the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses will help MSRTC handle rising passenger demand, particularly across heavily travelled intra-state and regional routes.

Distinctive Colour Scheme and Visual Identity

One of the key highlights of the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses is their saffron and white colour combination, which has been specially selected to reflect Maharashtra’s cultural heritage and pride.

The saffron shade symbolises bravery, tradition, and historical legacy associated with the Maratha empire, while white represents reliability and public service.

Together, the colour scheme aims to create a visually recognisable identity for passengers while strengthening brand recall for MSRTC’s new service category.

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Continuing MSRTC’s Legacy of Thematic Bus Services

The introduction of the MSRTC ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses follows MSRTC’s long-standing practice of naming its services after culturally significant figures and symbols.

Over the years, the corporation has introduced several branded services, including:

• Shivneri – Premium intercity service
• Shivshahi – Semi-luxury service
• Shivai – Regional service category
• Yashwanti – Women-focused services
• Hirkani – Services highlighting strength and resilience

The new ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses add another chapter focusing on increased seating capacity. While reinforcing its role as a key public transport provider in Maharashtra.