MSRTC Introduces Air Hostess-like Attendants on Electric Buses

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation has announced the introduction of air hostess-like attendants named 'Shivneri Sundari' on its electric Shivneri buses between Mumbai and Pune. The initiative aims to enhance the travel experience. Other key decisions include procurement of new buses, conversion of diesel buses, and establishment of health centers.

Next time you travel on state-run electric luxury buses between Mumbai and Pune, don't be surprised if you are greeted on-board by a friendly attendant, ''Shivneri Sundari,'' whose job will be akin to an air hostess.

In a move aimed at improving service quality and enhancing the travel experience on e-Shivneri buses, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), under its new chairman Bharat Gogawale, announced on Tuesday the introduction of air hostess-like attendants on these AC vehicles plying between the two key cities under the brand name ''Shivneri''.

As per an MSRTC release, the decision was taken at the state-owned transport corporation's 304th board meeting in Mumbai. The initiative seeks to provide air travel-like hospitality to commuters travelling on the 200-km-long busy route. Appointing these attendants, who will welcome and assist passengers, will elevate the quality of Shivneri e-bus travel without any additional charges to commuter tickets.

The MSRTC also discussed and approved the procurement of 2,500 new buses and initiated a tender process for the same. Additionally, it proposed a pilot project to convert 100 diesel buses into electric ones. Other initiatives include the establishment of health centers at 343 bus stations, the introduction of new depots in tribal areas, and the allocation of space to women's self-help groups to sell local products.

(With inputs from agencies.)