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Religion
Maharashtra Deploys 2,900 Free Buses for Ganesh Chaturthi Festivities
✍️ Amar Ujala · Maharashtra
🗓 07 Sep 2026, 06:17 PM
👁 6
The state government has arranged 2,900 complimentary bus trips to facilitate devotees traveling for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations across Maharashtra.
Mumbai – The Maharashtra transport department announced that 2,900 free bus services will be made available throughout the state during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The initiative aims to ease the movement of devotees visiting temples and community events, reducing traffic congestion and travel costs.
The buses, operating on designated routes that connect major pilgrimage sites and urban centers, will run from the start of the festival until its conclusion. Officials said the schedule will be posted on the department’s website and local information boards, and the services will be monitored to ensure punctuality.
Transport Minister Ashok Chavan emphasized that the free rides are part of the government’s effort to support cultural celebrations while promoting safe, organized travel. The scheme is expected to benefit thousands of citizens who rely on public transport during the holiday period.
Authorities have urged commuters to carry valid identification and follow seating guidelines to maintain order on the crowded buses. The free service will be funded through the state’s cultural promotion budget.
The rollout will be reviewed after the festival to assess its impact and consider extending similar measures for future religious events.
The buses, operating on designated routes that connect major pilgrimage sites and urban centers, will run from the start of the festival until its conclusion. Officials said the schedule will be posted on the department’s website and local information boards, and the services will be monitored to ensure punctuality.
Transport Minister Ashok Chavan emphasized that the free rides are part of the government’s effort to support cultural celebrations while promoting safe, organized travel. The scheme is expected to benefit thousands of citizens who rely on public transport during the holiday period.
Authorities have urged commuters to carry valid identification and follow seating guidelines to maintain order on the crowded buses. The free service will be funded through the state’s cultural promotion budget.
The rollout will be reviewed after the festival to assess its impact and consider extending similar measures for future religious events.