Pune: To cater to the significant number of commuters traveling between Pune and Mumbai, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has launched the Swargate to Mantralaya Shivneri bus service. This new service aims to provide convenience for employees who reside in Mumbai during the week and return to Pune for the weekends.
Starting immediately, the Shivneri bus will depart from Swargate every Monday at 6 AM and from Mantralaya every Friday at 6:30 PM. This bi-weekly service is expected to be a boon for weekend commuters, offering them a reliable and comfortable travel option.
The bus route will include the Atal Setu, a key connector between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, which significantly reduces travel distance. The Pune to Dadar buses via Atal Setu have already seen a positive response, highlighting the efficiency and convenience of this route. The new service was initiated following demands from Mantralaya employees who required a direct connection from Swargate.
In addition to the new Shivneri service, a daily Hirkani bus also operates on this route, further enhancing travel options for commuters. The new service is set to greatly benefit the commuting workforce, providing a much-needed reliable travel option between Pune and Mumbai.
Discounts for Passengers
Responding to requests for a direct bus to Mantralaya, the MSRTC has also announced ticket discounts for certain passenger categories. Women and senior citizens aged 65 to 75 will enjoy a 50 per cent discount on tickets, while those over 75 years will travel for free. Ticket bookings for this service are available through the MSRTC website and mobile app, according to Pramod Nehul, the ST Divisional Controller.
Swargate to Mantralaya Shivneri Bus Schedule:
Swargate to Mantralaya: Every Monday at 6 AM
Mantralaya to Swargate: Every Friday at 6:30 PM