Click it and Unblock the Notifications
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has started a new and student-friendly plan to make travel easier. Now, students no longer have to visit depots or stand in long lines to get their bus passes. Under the new initiative, passes will be given directly at their schools and colleges. This thoughtful change is saving students both time and effort as the new academic year begins on June 16.
Bus Passes Delivered to Campuses
MSRTC has launched the 'ST pass directly to your school' initiative across the state. Instead of asking students to visit bus depots or special pass centres, MSRTC staff will now go to schools and colleges. Using the list of students shared by principals, they will distribute the passes right there on campus. This will help students avoid wasting time outside and allow them to focus more on their studies.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik explained that the aim is to support students better. "Earlier, students had to leave classes and stand in lines for hours. With this new plan, they can get their passes without missing school," he said during the launch of the scheme.
Big Discounts on Travel
The scheme provides a 66.66% discount on the fare for students who travel daily between home and school or college. That means students only need to pay 33.33% of the regular monthly pass fare. For students in classes 1 to 12, bus passes are completely free under the 'Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar' scheme. This is helping many families save money and ensure that their children can attend school regularly.
Smooth Rollout Across the State
Arun Siya, the divisional controller of MSRTC, shared that depot managers have already started reaching out to schools. Letters are sent to headmasters and principals asking for student lists. Based on these, the bus passes are handed out. "We have started this process today, following the minister's announcement," said Siya.
This new method started in Pune on May 16. Bus passes were given at schools near Bhor and Shirur depots, and the process has been smooth and quick.
Students Appreciate the Change
Many students are happy with the new arrangement. Aditya Patil, a student, shared his experience: "Earlier, I had to pay ₹1,500 every month and visit the depot for renewals. Now that passes are given at school, it's much easier for me and helps my parents save money too."
This simple but effective change is a big step forward for students across Maharashtra. With this move, MSRTC is not just making travel easier but also supporting education by removing transportation worries.
