Nagpur: In preparation for the annual Ashadhi Yatra, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), Nagpur Division, has announced the deployment of 65 special buses to facilitate travel for pilgrims heading to Shri Kshetra Pandharpur. The yatra will take place from July 2 to July 13, 2025, with additional services to be made available earlier if required.
New Direct Village-to-Pandharpur Bus Service for Groups
In a major initiative this year, MSRTC will offer direct buses from any village in Maharashtra to Pandharpur for group bookings of 40 or more pilgrims. Devotees interested in availing this facility have been advised to contact their nearest ST (State Transport) depot. This move aims to enhance accessibility and ease of travel for large groups making the sacred journey.
Concessions and Facilities for Devotees
As in previous years, all government travel concessions will be applicable during the yatra period:
- Amrit Senior Citizen Scheme: Free travel for individuals aged 75 and above
- 50% concession for senior citizens
- Discounted fares for women under the Mahila Sanman Yojana
To manage the expected surge of pilgrims, four temporary bus stations will be set up in Pandharpur at:
- Chandrabhaga
- Bhima
- Pandurang (ITI College)
- Vitthal Sugar Factory premises
These facilities aim to reduce traffic congestion and ensure smooth passenger movement.
Essential services such as drinking water, public toilets, computerised booking centres, enquiry counters, and guidance signage will be made available at all temporary bus terminals. MSRTC has urged pilgrims to use these safe, well-organised transport services for their journey.
Key Dates and Administration
The main pilgrimage day, Ashadhi Ekadashi, falls on Sunday, July 6, 2025, with Poornima to be observed on Thursday, July 10, 2025.
To ensure seamless communication, all ST depots have been instructed to display notice boards with information about additional services, booking details, and contact numbers of designated officers. Publicity campaigns through Gram Panchayats at the taluka and village level have also been initiated.
The arrangements will be monitored by the Regional Transport Manager, under the guidance of the Transport General Manager and the Joint Control Committee, Mumbai.
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