Pune’s intercity travellers are voicing growing frustration over delays in the Mumbai–Pune Shivneri bus service, with many claiming that shared cabs now offer faster and cheaper alternatives. Recent passenger accounts reveal journeys stretching beyond five hours — nearly two hours longer than expected — despite paying a higher fare for what is marketed as a premium service.
Passengers boarding from Dadar described multiple halts within Mumbai before the bus even reaches the Expressway, followed by lengthy scheduled breaks that further extend travel time. Some questioned why buses continue to idle in the city to pick up passengers when traffic is not a major hindrance. The fare for the Shivneri service stands at around ₹590, compared to roughly ₹400 for shared cabs that reportedly reach Pune in about three hours. Sources within the state transport system admitted that buses often slow down due to vacant seats after departure, prompting drivers to stop at intermediate points to fill capacity. Officials confirmed that the issue is more common on buses operating via the Vashi–Nerul–Kharghar route rather than those using the Atal Setu, which have seen fewer complaints. Plans are underway to increase the number of Atal Setu buses to shorten journey times.
Adding to commuter dissatisfaction are reports of rash driving on the Expressway and inattentiveness behind the wheel. Earlier this year, a Mumbai–Pune Shivneri bus mounted a road divider in Sion, an incident that left passengers shaken but unharmed. Transport authorities suspended the driver temporarily, though they stressed that neither fatigue nor intoxication was a factor. There have also been allegations of drivers using mobile phones while driving, prompting concerns over passenger safety. Transport experts believe that while the MSRTC’s decision to expand the Atal Setu route could alleviate delays, the deeper issue lies in balancing operational efficiency with commuter expectations. “Passengers are paying for speed, safety, and comfort — and when the service falls short, they naturally look for alternatives,” an urban mobility expert noted.
With an increasing shift towards private and app-based intercity transport options, state-run services face mounting pressure to modernise, improve scheduling discipline, and ensure consistent adherence to safety protocols. For Pune’s regular commuters, the message is clear — a premium fare must deliver a premium experience. Whether the upcoming operational changes will restore passenger trust remains to be seen. For now, the slow crawl between Mumbai and Pune is not just a traffic issue, but a test of the city’s commitment to efficient and sustainable public transport.
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