Jalgaon: The Jalgaon Division of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) recorded a significant rise in passenger traffic and revenue during the Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage, with more than 50,000 devotees travelling to Pandharpur by ST buses this year.
According to MSRTC officials, a total of 50,779 devotees from Jalgaon district travelled to Pandharpur to seek the blessings of Lord Vitthal, generating a revenue of ₹2,56,60,260 for the division. Compared to last year, the Jalgaon Division registered a 21.77 per cent increase in revenue.
Officials said the growing preference for ST buses is due to their safe and reliable service, along with the State Government's welfare schemes, including a 50 per cent fare concession for women and free travel for senior citizens.
To manage the increased demand during the pilgrimage, the Jalgaon Division operated 554 bus trips, up from 472 trips last year. The buses covered a total distance of 2,73,398 kilometres to ensure smooth transportation for devotees travelling to Pandharpur.
Among all talukas, Jalgaon recorded the highest number of passengers, with 5,280 devotees travelling by ST buses, generating revenue of ₹28.85 lakh. Raver taluka recorded 4,338 passengers but generated the highest revenue of ₹40.98 lakh.
Divisional Controller Pradnyesh Borse attributed the successful operation to the dedicated efforts of the division's officers and employees. He said their coordinated planning and commitment ensured a safe, smooth and efficient pilgrimage for thousands of devotees while helping the division achieve a substantial increase in revenue.
