Latest news with #MSRTC
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Red corridor dismantled: State-run bus rolls into mouth of tottering Maoist Hq of Abujmarh, tribals cheer with tricolour
1 2 Nagpur: A Maharashtra state-run bus rolled into the once booby-trapped tribal hamlet of Maraknar in the mouth of the tottering Maoist headquarters of Abujmarh on Wednesday, signalling the decimation of the Maoist liberated zones after 78 years of independence. The village in south Gadchiroli's Bhamragarh taluka, which was earlier part of the 'janatana sarkar' or guerrilla-driven governance, cheered the arrival of the state bus at their doorstep, something unthinkable for the 100-odd tribals even a year ago as was possessing a cell phone or an Aadhaar card. The service by Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will end a 6km treacherous trek through dense forests to Kothi town, where a state transport bus from Aheri would make a night halt to take back passengers the following day. Not just Maraknar, at least 1,000 tribal residents and students of adjoining Murumbahushi, Phulnar, Koparshi, Poyarkothi, and Gundurwahi hamlets would benefit from the bus service. On May 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had lauded the launch of a bus service to Katezhari in Gadchiroli in his 'Man ki Baat'. Shortly after his address, Gadchiroli police and administration added a more daring chapter by ensuring the service touched the foothills of the Maoist headquarters of Abujmarh at Maraknar. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Gentle Japanese hair growth method for men and women's scalp Hair's Rich Learn More Undo Schoolchildren, true beneficiaries of the initiative, welcomed the bus by holding aloft tricolours as their parents walked along, drumming and sloganeering in support of the govt. Next year, the bus is scheduled to travel another kilometre to reach Murumbushi, where till a few years ago one could hear only gunshots and grenades exploding. "We were able to launch the MSRTC bus service after Maraknar and adjoining areas adopted the govt's 'gaonbandi' scheme, banning entry of Maoists in return for development schemes. Commandos began reclaiming liberated zones and extended protection to road construction and the setting up of mobile phone towers. The rest is history now," said SDPO Bhamragarh division Amar Mohite, who along with Gadchiroli SP Neelotpal, DIG Ankit Goyal, and IG Anti-Naxal Operation, Sandip Patil, ensured that 40 villages in and around Abujmarh embraced 'gaonbandi'. "Earlier the MSRTC bus linked Aheri to Kothi via Bhamragarh. The same bus will now move another 5km from Kothi to Maraknar after the road was constructed, keeping guerrillas at bay," said Mohite. "Barely 800m are left to link remote Murumbushi to Maraknar. Security forces provided cover to labourers and equipment, but rains halted work," said the SDPO. "Next year, we will ensure the bus penetrates deeper into Murumbushi," he said. A cell phone tower was recently erected in the village. Officials also lauded the roles of Kothi police station officer-in-charge Dilip Gawli and MSRTC depot manager, Aheri.
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Gadchiroli's Maraknar gets its first-ever bus service since Independence
Residents of Maraknar—in Gadchiroli district on the foothills of Abujmarh which had no access to public transport until now— got a reason to rejoice as an MSRTC bus made inroads into this remote village on Wednesday, the first time since Independence. Until last year, residents had to walk five to six hours through dense forests to reach Kothi, the nearest village with bus connectivity. Although a road upto Markanar was built last year, bus services began only on Wednesday. Over 1,200 people, including students, patients, and farmers, are expected to benefit from the bus service. According to Gadchiroli police, the new bus route from Markanar to Aheri will also benefit nearby villages such as Murumbhushi, Phulanar, Koparshi, Poyarkothi, and Gundurwahi, which for long did not have access to public transport. The initiative was made possible through the concerted efforts of Gadchiroli Police and the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). Gram Patil of Maraknar Jhuru Malu Mattami inaugurated the bus while CRPF Assistant Commandant Avinash Chaudhary and police sub-inspector Dilip Gawali of Kothi police station formally flagged it off. The moment was celebrated with the distribution of sweets by the police. Located just 6km from the Chhattisgarh border in the Bhamragad sub-division, Maraknar is one of several villages now benefiting from recent development under police protection. Roads like the one from Kothi to Maraknar were completed last year, and the ongoing Maraknar to Murumbhushi road has opened up long-isolated areas in the region. A mobile tower was also installed in Maraknar recently, improving communication in the village. On February 9 this year, villagers unanimously passed a resolution refusing to support Maoists in any way. Subsequently development work was expedited under the civic action programmes by the Gadchiroli Police Force. In recent years, the Gadchiroli Police Force has facilitated the construction of over 420km of roads and 60 bridges, despite security threats. Earlier this year, similar services were launched from Gatta-Gardewada-Wangeturi and from Katezari to Gadchiroli, also aimed at easing life in some of the most difficult terrains. This initiative was the result of efforts led by PSI Dilip Gawali, CRPF personnel and Kothi police in Gadchiroli. The initiative was guided and supported by senior officials of Gadchiroli, including Superintendent of Police (SP) Neelotpal, Additional SPs M Ramesh, Satya Sai Karthik, Gokul Raj G, and DySP Vishal Nagargoje, along with SDPO Bhamragad Amar Mohite.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
Maharashtra govt to launch air ambulance services, says Minister
Mumbai, A comprehensive plan will be prepared for road safety in the state, and various improvements will be made from the road safety fund, said Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik here on Monday. While speaking at the meeting, discussing various issues related to the transport department, he said that to provide immediate help after accidents on highways, air ambulance services will be started, and vehicles equipped with essential medical equipment will be deployed. The minister also reviewed the action taken following the letter given regarding City Flow and other app-based buses carrying illegal passengers. He said that action should be taken against illegal taxi and bus transport. He said that there is no restriction on passenger transport under the rules. "It has been decided to appoint an independent agency to provide accurate and detailed information on road safety. This agency will provide detailed information on accident-prone areas, and measures will be implemented based on that," he said. Meanwhile, Minister Sarnaik said that the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), a state-run undertaking, is the 'mother organisation' of about 83,000 employees. "State Transport bus service will never be privatised in the future, so the employees should not believe such rumours," he appealed. Minister Sarnaik, who is also the MSRTC chairman, said that ST employees are very hardworking. "It is the moral responsibility of the ST administration to provide them with basic amenities at the place where they work. Therefore, the driver-conductor rest house and the toilets there should be clean," he said. He pointed out that for this, the government will soon appoint a private sanitation company, and along with cleaning the rest house, arrangements will be made to wash and iron the uniforms of the employees and give them to the employees. "Not only this, arrangements will also be made on behalf of the sanitation company for the beard and hair cutting of the employees. By paying attention to the basic needs of the employees in this way, it is possible to create a favourable psychological environment for the employees who perform. This will have a positive impact on their work methods and help increase their productivity," asserted Minister Sarnaik.
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
Mahabaleshwar On A Budget?! 9 Secrets Locals Don't Want You To Know
Mahabaleshwar, nestled in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra, is a delightful hill station known for its lush greenery, panoramic views, and pleasant climate. While it may seem like an expensive destination, it's possible to experience the good life here without breaking the bank. Here's how to enjoy Mahabaleshwar on a budget: 1. Getting There The first step to a budget-friendly trip is affordable transportation. Mahabaleshwar is well-connected by road from major cities like Mumbai and Pune. Opt for state-run buses (MSRTC) or shared taxis, which are economical and comfortable. If you're traveling from Pune, the journey is about 120 km and can cost as little as INR 200-300 by bus. 2. Budget Accommodation Finding a place to stay that won't drain your wallet is crucial. Mahabaleshwar offers a variety of budget accommodations including guesthouses, hostels, and budget hotels. Consider staying in areas like Panchgani or Wai, which are close by and often cheaper. Online booking platforms can offer discounts, so booking in advance is a good idea. Look for homestays or guesthouses where you can get a room for as low as INR 500-1000 per night. 3. Economical Eating Options Food is a significant part of the travel experience, and Mahabaleshwar has plenty of options that are both delicious and affordable. Street food stalls and small eateries around the market area offer local delicacies like vada pav, pav bhaji, and corn patties at reasonable prices. Don't miss out on trying fresh strawberries with cream, a local specialty, available at various stalls and cafes. A meal in a small restaurant can cost around INR 100-200. 4. Exploring Nature Mahabaleshwar's natural beauty is its biggest draw, and exploring it doesn't have to cost a lot. Most of the scenic points like Wilson Point, Arthur's Seat, and Kate's Point are free to visit. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views without spending a dime. The Venna Lake offers boating at a nominal fee, making it a great budget-friendly activity. The Mahabaleshwar Temple and Panchganga Temple are also must-visit spots that are free of cost. 5. Strawberry Farms and Local Markets A visit to the strawberry farms is a must when in Mahabaleshwar. Some farms offer free entry and allow you to pick your own strawberries for a small fee. This can be a fun and inexpensive activity. The local markets are great for buying souvenirs, fresh fruits, and locally made jams and jellies at reasonable prices. Bargaining is common, so don't hesitate to negotiate for the best deals. 6. Trekking and Nature Walks For the more adventurous, Mahabaleshwar offers several trekking routes that are free to explore. Trails like the one to Pratapgad Fort offer a mix of history and nature. Carry your own water and snacks to save money. Early morning walks around the hill station can also be a refreshing way to experience its beauty without spending anything. 7. Travel During Off-Season Visiting during the off-season (monsoon or winter months) can significantly reduce costs as accommodation and transportation prices drop. The monsoon season, although wet, brings out the lush greenery and the waterfalls in full flow, offering a unique and serene experience. 8. Use Public Transportation While exploring Mahabaleshwar, use public transportation like local buses or shared taxis instead of hiring private cabs. This is not only cheaper but also gives you a chance to interact with locals and learn more about the area. 9. Plan and Budget Wisely Planning your itinerary and budgeting your expenses in advance can help you manage your finances better. Allocate a daily budget for accommodation, food, and activities, and try to stick to it. Use apps and websites to compare prices and find the best deals. Conclusion Experiencing the good life in Mahabaleshwar on a budget is entirely possible with a bit of planning and smart choices. From affordable transportation and accommodation to exploring the natural beauty and local culture, Mahabaleshwar offers plenty of opportunities for budget travelers. So pack your bags, follow these tips, and enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Time of India
11 yrs on, kin of MSRTC driver who died in mishap get 33L
Thane: After a legal battle lasting nearly 11 years, the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal (MACT), Thane, awarded a compensation of Rs 32.59 lakh to the family of an MSRTC driver who died in a 2014 road accident near Murbad. The tribunal found the truck driver 75% negligent and attributed 25% contributory negligence to the deceased bus driver. In the order, the member of MACT, R V Mohite, observed that the accident was avoidable and resulted from the rash and negligent driving of the truck driver. It was noted that the truck veered unnecessarily onto the middle of the road despite having ample space on its side. You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai The incident occurred on Jan 2, 2014, when the deceased was driving an MSRTC bus towards Alephata, Pune. A speeding truck collided with the bus near Thidbi village in Murbad, causing the bus to fall into a valley. The driver died on the spot. The truck driver was charge-sheeted by Tokawade Police. The total compensation of Rs 32.59 lakh includes amounts for future income loss, future prospects, loss of consortium, love and affection, funeral expenses, and transportation of the deceased's body. The compensation is to be paid jointly by the truck owner and the insurance company, with 9% interest from the date of filing.
