Special ST buses announced for Ashadhi Ekadashi Pandharpur yatra

 

 

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), Nagpur Division, has announced the deployment of 65 special buses during the ‘Ashadhi Yatra’ period to facilitate pilgrim travel to Shri Kshetra Pandharpur. The yatra will officially run from July 2 to July 13, 2025, with additional buses made available earlier if required. In a significant move this year, MSRTC will provide direct buses from any village in Maharashtra to Pandharpur for group bookings of 40 or more pilgrims. Devotees are urged to contact their nearest ST depot to avail of this service.

 

As every year, lakhs of devotees from across the State undertake this sacred journey, often by foot, private vehicles, trains, or ST buses. This year, the MSRTC has streamlined the process by offering village-to-Pandharpur bus connectivity for large groups. All Government travel concessions will apply during the journey, including the ‘Amrit Senior Citizen Scheme’ which offers free travel to those above 75 years of age, 50% discounts for senior citizens, and women’s concessions under the Mahila Sanman Yojana. To manage the massive influx of pilgrims, four temporary bus stations will be established in Pandharpur at Chandrabhaga, Bhima, Pandurang (ITI College), and Vitthal Sugar Factory premises.

 

These will prevent congestion and improve passenger movement. During the yatra period, essential facilities such as drinking water, public toilets, computerised booking centres, enquiry counters, and guidance boards will be available at these temporary stands. Devotees are encouraged to make use of the safe and organised services. The main pilgrimage day, Ashadhi Ekadashi, will be observed on Sunday, July 6, 2025, with Poornima falling on Thursday, July 10, 2025. ST depot managers have been directed to display clear notice boards with information about extra buses, booking procedures, and contact details of designated officers. Publicity at the taluka and village level via Gram Panchayats has also been mandated. The Regional Transport Manager will supervise the arrangement under the guidance of Transport GM and Joint Control Committee, Mumbai.