MSRTC to Stop Nagpur-Pune Sleeper Bus Service from June 2
Nagpur, India: The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced it will stop its only sleeper bus service between Nagpur and Pune starting 2 June. The decision has upset many regular passengers, especially students and low-income travellers who relied on the affordable service.
The sleeper buses, which began operating during Diwali two years ago, had become popular for their comfort and convenience. Two non-air-conditioned sleeper coaches with 30 berths each departed daily from Ganeshpeth Bus Stand at 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., reaching Pune the next morning. Return services were equally well-timed.
Many students from Nagpur studying in Pune found the service especially helpful. Female students from economically weaker backgrounds received a 50% concession on the ₹1,800 fare, making it a more accessible travel option.
Despite its popularity, MSRTC officials say the sleeper buses were running at a loss. "Both buses were not financially sustainable," said MSRTC Deputy General Manager Shrikant Gabhne. The vehicles will now be sent to Western Maharashtra and replaced with regular seated buses on the Nagpur-Pune route.
The news has left frequent travellers frustrated. “The timing and pricing suited students like me perfectly,” said Shubhangi Sonkusre, a regular passenger. “It’s disappointing to see a helpful service discontinued.”
Online booking for the sleeper service has already been stopped from 2 June onwards. Passengers are now calling for MSRTC to reconsider the decision, fearing it will affect students and budget-conscious travellers the most.
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