Mumbai–Pune Shivneri Bus: Express in Name Only, Passengers Frustrated with Long Delays

Mumbai/Pune, 11th August 2025: Passengers travelling on the state-run Mumbai–Pune Shivneri AC bus service have expressed frustration over what they say are excessive halts and long travel times, turning what should be a smooth intercity journey into a drawn-out ordeal.

A recent trip from Mumbai to Pune took more than five hours, with multiple stoppages within the city before the bus even reached the expressway. “It’s a complete waste of time,” said a commuter who boarded the bus from Dadar. “A shared cab costs about ₹400 and reaches in three hours. But here, I spent five and a half hours, including unnecessary waits and a 20-minute break on the expressway.”

Passengers also questioned whether the ₹590 fare justified the service quality. “There was no traffic, yet the bus kept halting for long periods in Mumbai. It’s frustrating when you’re paying for an ‘express’ service that feels anything but express,” the passenger added.

According to sources, the delays often occur because buses wait at intermediate stops to fill vacant seats even after departing from the Dadar depot. This practice, while aimed at maximizing occupancy, has a significant impact on travel time and passenger satisfaction.

When contacted, a senior official from the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) acknowledged the complaints and said the issue would be reviewed. “We have noticed that buses taking the route via Vashi bridge, Nerul, and Kharghar tend to face such delays due to repeated stops. However, services operating through Atal Setu have not reported these issues,” the official explained.

The MSRTC has been under pressure to improve its services, especially on popular routes like Mumbai to Pune. Passengers are hoping for quicker and more efficient travel options, and the MSRTC needs to address these concerns to regain public trust and maintain its reputation.

In the meantime, commuters are exploring alternative modes of transportation, such as shared cabs and private buses, which often offer better service and shorter travel times. The need for reliable and efficient public transport is crucial for the smooth functioning of intercity travel, and the MSRTC must take proactive steps to enhance its services.

The MSRTC has a significant role in connecting major cities and providing affordable travel options to millions of passengers. Ensuring that their services meet the expectations of commuters is essential for maintaining public satisfaction and trust. The corporation has promised to review the issues and implement measures to reduce travel times and improve the overall experience for passengers.

Passengers are hopeful that these changes will be implemented soon, as the current situation is causing significant inconvenience and frustration. The MSRTC has a lot to prove, and the coming months will be crucial in demonstrating their commitment to improving their services.