MSRTC Repurposes Shivshahi Buses Into Non AC Semi Luxury Fleet
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation MSRTC has initiated the conversion of its Shivshahi buses into non air conditioned semi luxury vehicles. In the Pune division alone, seventy four such buses are undergoing this transformation to resemble the standard Hirkani fleet. This strategic decision comes amidst the increasing induction of electric buses and concerns over the deteriorating reliability of the existing Shivshahi models, aiming to enhance overall service efficiency and modernize the state’s transport infrastructure.
A divisional controller within MSRTC Pune confirmed this development, explaining that the move is a direct response to the growing number of electric buses being incorporated into the fleet, alongside the long standing issues plaguing the Shivshahi buses. The conversion work has already commenced in the Pune division. These buses are being stripped of their air conditioning systems and will adopt the familiar pink and white color scheme characteristic of the semi luxury category. Furthermore, their interiors are undergoing extensive refurbishment to align with regular, semi luxury operational standards.
The primary objective behind this repurposing is to effectively utilize the older Shivshahi buses rather than letting them remain idle or scrapping them entirely. Once converted, these vehicles will be deployed on various intra district and inter district routes across the state. With new air conditioned electric buses continually joining the fleet, this strategic conversion allows MSRTC to manage its resources more efficiently while maintaining consistent commuter service levels throughout its network.
This transformation represents a broader strategic shift within MSRTC, aimed at modernizing its entire fleet, significantly reducing its dependence on outdated diesel models, and enhancing overall service reliability for passengers. The Shivshahi buses, first launched in 2017 as an affordable air conditioned travel option, were initially operated through a public private partnership model. However, in recent years, this fleet has been marred by persistent technical snags, frequent breakdowns, and even road mishaps, significantly tarnishing its once premier image. During the conversion process, MSRTC Pune division is conducting thorough safety audits and mechanical checks to ensure the revamped buses are fully fit for service. The corporation anticipates completing the conversion of all seventy four buses in the Pune division over the next five to six months.
This comprehensive overhaul reflects MSRTC’s strategic shift towards modernizing its fleet and reducing reliance on aging diesel models. By repurposing these buses, the corporation aims to improve service reliability and resource management. The initiative seeks to provide more consistent and efficient travel options for commuters across various intra district and inter district routes statewide.
