The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to enhance student mobility across the state with the deployment of its newly inducted bus fleet for school and college excursions this season. The initiative aims to provide safer, affordable, and reliable travel options for educational tours while supporting cultural and heritage awareness among students.
Under this programme, approximately 800 to 1,000 buses will be available daily from MSRTC’s 251 depots across Maharashtra. These buses will serve institutions organising field trips to historical, religious, and scenic destinations between November and February, aligning with the academic calendar for practical learning outside classrooms. Transport authorities have emphasised that this initiative also contributes to increasing public transport usage among young commuters, potentially fostering a culture of sustainable travel. A senior MSRTC official said, “Our goal is to ensure that students have seamless and safe access to cultural and educational sites. These newly acquired buses will improve operational efficiency and enable institutions to plan excursions with confidence.” The state government continues to subsidise travel costs for students, offering a 50% concession on fares for organised educational tours, which makes these trips more accessible to a wider demographic.
Last year, MSRTC deployed 19,624 buses for school and college tours, generating revenue of Rs 92 crore including government reimbursements. For the current season, depot managers and station heads have been instructed to liaise directly with schools and colleges to facilitate planning and scheduling of trips, ensuring daily availability of buses for each educational institution. The fleet comprises modern vehicles equipped with enhanced safety features, improving passenger comfort and operational reliability. “Safety, accessibility, and efficiency are central to this programme,” an industry expert on urban mobility observed. “By dedicating resources to student travel, MSRTC demonstrates a commitment to inclusive and equitable transport solutions, which can also reduce dependence on private vehicles and associated emissions.”
This programme reflects broader trends in sustainable urban transport planning in Maharashtra, where government agencies are increasingly prioritising eco-friendly, accessible mobility while supporting social and educational outcomes. With effective coordination and deployment, the initiative could serve as a model for other states seeking to combine public transport expansion with youth engagement and cultural education. MSRTC officials have indicated that feedback from participating schools will be monitored closely, with the objective of fine-tuning the programme for future seasons. The initiative highlights the potential of public transport interventions to serve multiple civic objectives, from reducing carbon footprint to promoting equitable access to educational experiences.
Maharashtra Deploys New MSRTC Fleet For School Excursions Across State
