The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) recorded a windfall this Raksha Bandhan, earning a staggering Rs 137.37 crore in just four days, thanks to an unprecedented surge in passenger turnout.
From August 8 to 11, nearly 1.93 crore passengers travelled on MSRTC buses across the state, including 88 lakh women passengers, as families reunited to celebrate the festival. The figures were revealed by Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik on Tuesday.
MSRTC reported steady passenger revenue earnings over four consecutive days in August. On Thursday, August 8, the corporation earned Rs 30.06 crore. On Friday, August 9, it recorded Rs 34.86 crore. On Saturday, August 10, the revenue stood at Rs 33.36 crore, followed by a significant rise on Sunday, August 11, when earnings peaked at Rs 39.09 crore.
Highlighting the festival’s impact on travel, Minister Sarnaik stated that August 11 alone generated Rs 39.09 crore — the highest single-day revenue for the current financial year.
MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik's Statement
“Every year, Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Dooj (during Diwali) bring in significant revenue, as siblings travel across the state to celebrate together. This year was no different — the response was overwhelming,” said Sarnaik.
Sarnaik extended his gratitude to the people of Maharashtra for their continued faith in MSRTC’s services and applauded the dedication of staff members who worked through the festive weekend.
The minister also hinted at plans to build on this momentum by enhancing services during upcoming festive seasons.
“Our employees prioritised public service over personal celebrations. Their commitment is the backbone of this achievement,” he said. “This kind of response boosts the morale of our team and reinforces the trust passengers have in MSRTC.”
