Mumbai, May 11 – The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to reintroduce the 3x2 seating arrangement in its buses after more than 15 years. This move, approved earlier this week by the transport body's board, aims to enhance revenue and increase the passenger capacity on MSRTC buses.
Plans for 3,000 New Buses
In a bid to address its revenue concerns and improve operational efficiency, the MSRTC will purchase 3,000 new buses with the conventional 3x2 seating arrangement. This decision is expected to help the state-run corporation generate additional revenue, particularly on rural routes where the demand for buses is high.State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik explained that the reintroduction of the 3x2 seating arrangement will offer more seating capacity, thereby making journeys more comfortable for passengers. The previous 2x2 seating arrangement, introduced in 2008, reduced the number of seats per bus from 52-55 to just 40, leading to a decline in revenue. By bringing back the 3x2 format, the MSRTC aims to alleviate this issue and improve financial outcomes.
Improved Capacity and Comfort
The 3x2 seating arrangement, which allows 50 passengers per bus, is particularly advantageous for crowded rural or semi-urban routes. While the 2x2 layout provided extra space and comfort, especially on urban routes, passengers traveling on more congested routes expressed dissatisfaction. The 3x2 configuration may make the gangway and seats feel more compact, but it guarantees passengers a seat, thus enhancing their travel experience.Officials from MSRTC pointed out that many neighboring states, such as Karnataka and Gujarat, continue to use the 3x2 arrangement on their buses, including semi-luxury buses. Following visits to the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC), Minister Sarnaik decided to adopt the 3x2 seating model based on its success in other states.
Addressing Growing Demand and Comfort for All
The MSRTC's decision to reintroduce the 3x2 layout also addresses the increasing number of women and elderly passengers who now travel for free or at discounted rates. Since the state government implemented these policies, the number of senior citizens and women traveling on MSRTC buses has risen significantly, further necessitating additional seating.With a fleet of approximately 15,000 buses, including around 12,500 ordinary buses, MSRTC is the largest state transport corporation in India. This move is expected to enhance its capacity, not just in terms of passengers, but also in its financial sustainability.
Timeline for Implementation
The MSRTC has already floated a tender for the purchase of 3x2-seat buses, with the pre-bid meeting already concluded. However, it will take several months before these buses begin operating across Maharashtra, primarily on short and medium-distance routes. The reintroduced buses are expected to provide a much-needed boost to MSRTC's operational capacity, especially on more crowded rural routes.This decision marks a significant step in the corporation's efforts to modernize and improve its services for the benefit of both passengers and the state-run transport system.
