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The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to revolutionize the Mumbai-Pune travel experience by launching a trial run of four air-conditioned "Shivneri" buses via the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), popularly known as Atal Setu. The move aims to reduce travel time by one hour, enhancing the efficiency of the daily commute for passengers.
In an announcement on February 19, MSRTC shared its plan to test the new route, anticipating a 25% reduction in travel time for passengers. Despite the shorter travel time, the fare for the "Shivneri" buses remains unchanged, offering an affordable and faster option for commuters.
Currently, the Mumbai-Pune route witnesses the operation of 210 Shivneri buses daily, covering the distance in four hours. However, this efficiency comes at the cost of bypassing 14 stops between Dadar and Kalamboli, which may impact certain commuters. MSRTC acknowledges this trade-off but highlights that the primary beneficiaries will be direct passengers traveling between Mumbai and Pune.
As part of the trial run, the designated "Shivneri" buses operating on the Pune railway station-Mantralaya and Swargate-Dadar routes, departing at 6:30 am and 7 am, will now incorporate the MTHL route to reach Mumbai. The return journey will follow the same route, providing a seamless and faster connection between the two cities.
The buses are set to traverse through Panvel, Nhava-Sheva, and Sewri to access the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, recognized as the longest sea bridge in India. The route covers prominent locations, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for commuters.
The Mumbai-Pune corridor is a vital transportation link, and the proposed route alteration through MTHL is poised to offer a more efficient and time-saving alternative for passengers. This initiative aligns with MSRTC's commitment to enhancing the overall travel experience for the large number of daily commuters.
As the trial run begins, passengers can anticipate a smoother and faster commute between Mumbai and Pune, making the Shivneri AC buses via MTHL an attractive choice for those seeking a quick and comfortable journey.
MSRTC, being one of the largest public transport bodies in the country, operates a vast fleet of approximately 15,000 buses, catering to the transportation needs of over 60 lakh passengers daily. The decision to utilize the Atal Setu for services aligns with the broader efforts to optimize travel routes and improve connectivity across Maharashtra. The success of this trial run could mark a significant advancement in the region's public transportation network.
