Mumbai: In a major push to overhaul the finances of Maharashtra’s rural transport backbone, the state government is looking beyond routine fare hikes. The MSRTC now plans to explore “conductorless” bus operations on select routes, betting on automation and fiscal prudence to restore the cash-strapped transporter to health.Reviewing the corporation’s fiscal roadmap, MSRTC chairperson Pratap Sarnaik emphasised that boosting revenue alone will not salvage MSRTC—curbing expenditure through modern operational models is equally vital. “Relying solely on fare increases cannot be the answer to making MSRTC economically viable,” Sarnaik said.Under the proposed conductorless model, buses will leverage modern transit tech to eliminate manual ticketing costs on suitable routes. Passengers will board using QR-code ticketing, digital payment gateways, and smart cards, ensuring swift boarding times and reduced operational friction. The move aims to optimise workforce deployment without compromising route frequency.“A satisfied passenger is the key to putting MSRTC’s financial engine back on track,” Sarnaik noted, urging officials to tailor schedules to shifting commuter patterns and local demand.With MSRTC navigating mounting diesel bills and operational deficits, adopting tech-driven conductorless corridors marks a decisive shift from traditional bureaucratic fixes toward smarter public mobility, he added.Meanwhile, from Sept 1, MSRTC has made National Common Mobility Cards mandatory for women and senior citizens aged 65 to 75 seeking fare concessions in absence of which they will have to pay full fare.
