The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) on Tuesday launched its new ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service, aimed at offering modern, safe and comfortable travel to passengers across the state. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the service at a ceremony held at the Vidhan Bhavan premises.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, Environment Minister Pankaja Munde, School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, along with legislators from both Houses. Senior officials including Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Sanjay Sethi, MSRTC Managing Director Madhav Kusekar, Ashok Leyland senior manager John Mathew, and Tata Motors Global Head Sushant Naik were also present.
Tribute to Rajmata Jijabai’s Legacy
The ‘Rajmata Jijau’ bus service has been conceptualised as a tribute to Rajmata Jijabai, whose guidance and values played a crucial role in shaping Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of Hindavi Swarajya. The naming of the service reflects Maharashtra’s rich cultural and historical heritage, officials said.
A symbolic installation depicting Rajmata Jijau on horseback was displayed in front of the bus during the inauguration, adding a historical and inspirational dimension to the ceremony.
3,000 Buses to Be Added in Phases
Under the initiative, MSRTC plans to induct around 3,000 ‘Rajmata Jijau’ buses into its fleet in a phased manner across Maharashtra. The move is expected to significantly enhance the quality of public transport by improving passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility.
The corporation already operates several premium and semi-premium services, including ‘Shivneri’, ‘Shivshahi’, ‘Shivai’, ‘Hirkani’, and ‘Yashwanti’. The addition of the ‘Rajmata Jijau’ service is set to further strengthen MSRTC’s transport network and make it more passenger-centric.
Formal Inauguration with Traditional Ceremony
The launch was marked by a traditional puja and ribbon-cutting ceremony performed by Chief Minister Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Shinde and Pawar. Following the inauguration, the dignitaries took a symbolic ride in the newly launched bus, marking the formal commencement of the service.
Officials said the initiative aligns with the state government’s focus on modernising public transport infrastructure while preserving Maharashtra’s cultural identity.
