Minister Pratap Sarnaik Announces Major Reforms for MSRTC: ₹40 Breakfast and Strict Directives for Passenger and Staff Welfare
Pune: In a decisive move to upgrade public transportation infrastructure, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik conducted extensive inspections at the Vallabhnagar bus depot and the Lonavala bus station on April 30, 2026. Accompanied by MP Shrirang Barne, local representatives, and ST officials, the Minister introduced a series of robust directives aimed at boosting passenger convenience, protecting consumers from overpricing, and significantly uplifting the working conditions of transport employees.
Vallabhnagar Depot: Elevating Staff Welfare and Local Enterprise
Acknowledging the immense contribution of the ST Corporation’s workforce, Minister Sarnaik stressed that drivers and conductors are the backbone of the state’s public transit network. To ensure that staff returning from arduous journeys are well-rested, the Minister issued strict instructions to upgrade rest houses with essential amenities, including pure drinking water, spotless sanitation, and hot water arrangements for bathing.
“Providing home-like facilities will ensure that employees perform their duties with even greater enthusiasm,” stated Minister Sarnaik.
To further boost local revenue and optimize the use of depot facilities, the Minister announced that commercial shops that have remained closed for years will be allocated to women’s savings groups and aspiring young entrepreneurs at highly nominal rents.
📅 Key Announcement: Affordable Dining
- ₹40 Tea & Breakfast: Minister Sarnaik announced that starting June 1, 2026, all passengers will be able to purchase tea and breakfast for a standardized and affordable price of just ₹40 at eateries across all ST bus depots, mirroring the convenience found on major highway motels.
Lonavala Bus Station: Protecting Consumers and Streamlining Operations
Following his visit to the Vallabhnagar depot, the Minister inspected the Lonavala bus station, directly engaging with passengers and staff to address on-ground challenges.
💧 Regulating Consumer Goods
Upon learning that a 1-liter bottle of chilled ‘Nathjal’ water was being sold at an inflated rate of ₹20, the Minister issued an immediate warning.
- The chilled water must be sold for ₹15.
- Vendors found selling above the price cap will have their sales licenses canceled.
- Clear display of rate boards is now mandatory.
🚌 Halting Unannounced Private Detours
Commuters voiced concerns over buses bypassing the Lonavala bus station to stop at private hotels, forcing passengers to buy overpriced food. In response, Minister Sarnaik directed the ST administration to ensure all buses stop directly at the Lonavala station as per their scheduled timetable, prohibiting any unsanctioned stops at private hotels.
Additionally, the Minister reviewed the station’s ticketing systems and sanitation, instructing officials to make immediate improvements to ensure a more comfortable and dignified travel experience for the public.
