Pune: MSRTC to Launch 24/7 Help Desks at Swargate, Shivajinagar for Passenger Safety
Pune, March 3 – The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) will set up 24-hour help desks at Swargate and Shivajinagar bus depots by the end of this week to enhance commuter safety and address passenger concerns. Officials from the MSRTC Pune division confirmed that the initiative aims to provide round-the-clock assistance to travelers.
“We are finalizing the setup, and the facilities should be operational within the next 2-3 days. We are also evaluating the possibility of expanding this initiative to other depots,” an MSRTC official stated.
The decision follows a recent incident at Swargate depot, where a woman health counselor was sexually assaulted inside an ST bus. In response, MSRTC has taken multiple security measures, including improved lighting, deployment of additional security personnel, and an increase in CCTV cameras. Swargate depot currently has 23 CCTV cameras, with plans to install 17 more, while Shivajinagar depot will also undergo surveillance upgrades. The installation of new cameras is expected to be completed within six weeks.
The help desks will be manned 24/7 to ensure prompt resolution of complaints. Passengers can also use these kiosks for bus service inquiries. Security personnel have been instructed to remain extra vigilant, particularly during late hours, as part of a broader effort to enhance passenger safety and prevent similar incidents.
