Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 11: Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday announced a hike in dearness allowance (DA) for State Transport (ST) Corporation employees from 53 per cent to 58 per cent, bringing them on par with state government employees.
Addressing a press conference, Sarnaik said the decision would benefit thousands of ST employees who play a vital role in providing transport services across Maharashtra.
“Like state government employees, ST workers will now receive 58 per cent dearness allowance instead of 53 per cent. We have also decided to clear pending dues of nearly Rs 100 crore owed to employees,” he said.
Sarnaik said he had discussed the matter with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who responded positively to the proposal.
The minister added that he would soon submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister seeking financial support from the Finance Department to reduce the burden of pending liabilities on the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC).
Speaking about the corporation’s financial situation, Sarnaik said efforts were underway to improve revenue generation and reduce losses.
“We are focusing on increasing income. Loss-making routes will be reviewed and services rationalised where necessary. Our aim is to minimise losses and move towards a no-profit, no-loss model. We are also planning to expand tourism-related bus services to boost revenue,” he said.
The minister highlighted the government's efforts to modernise the ST fleet. He said 2,640 new buses had already been inducted in the first phase, while 150 buses from the second phase of a planned 3,000-bus procurement had been delivered.
“Another 800 to 900 buses will arrive soon. These buses are being deployed across the state, including remote areas. Distribution will be completed by Diwali, and a depot-wise allocation plan has already been prepared,” he said.
Sarnaik further said that after the current phase is completed, the government plans to procure an additional 5,000 buses, reducing the need for hiring private vehicles.
He also announced that from 2027 onwards, the corporation aims to switch entirely to electric vehicles as part of its long-term modernisation strategy.
“In the future, passengers should be able to enjoy air-conditioned bus services at existing fare levels. Instructions have already been issued in this regard,” he added.
The announcements are expected to provide relief to ST employees while strengthening public transport services across Maharashtra.