MSRTC to Launch App for Booking Auto and Bus Rides: Report

The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), as per recent reports, is preparing to introduce a new mobile application named ‘Chhava Ride’, aimed at integrating various transport services onto a single platform, as per the PTI report. The app will allow users to book bus, taxi, autorickshaw, and electric bus rides directly through their phones.

Part of Aggregator Policy Framework

As per the report, the app is being developed under the central and state governments’ aggregator policy, which seeks to regulate digital ride-booking platforms more closely. This positions MSRTC as a public sector aggregator to offer services typically dominated by private companies like Ola and Uber.

MSRTC is expected to operate the app independently. According to Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the service could help create an additional revenue stream for the state-run body. 

State Measures Against Private Aggregators

As per the report, this development follows recent action against private operators. In mid-July, the Maharashtra government initiated a crackdown on Uber Shuttle and other similar services for running without the necessary licences. The transport minister had also raised concerns about private aggregators' treatment of passengers and drivers.

National Guidelines and State Regulations

At the central level, the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines (MVAG) 2025 were released in July, mandating the inclusion of electric vehicles in aggregator fleets. In May, the Maharashtra government implemented the Aggregator Cabs Policy 2025, which includes fines for drivers who cancel rides, with compensation credited to affected passengers.

In June, the Seva Sarathi Autorickshaw Taxi & Transport Union (SSATTU) collaborated with Metazen Labs to launch ‘Yatri Mitra’, an auto booking app for commuters in Mumbai and Thane. Earlier in March, the Centre launched a cooperative-based ride-hailing app called ‘Sahkar Taxi’.

Read More: Namma Yatri Launches Namma Transit to Integrate Auto, Cab, and Metro Services!

Conclusion

With the introduction of Chhava Ride, MSRTC enters the growing digital aggregator space, bringing state-backed options to a market that has seen increasing scrutiny of private operators in recent months.

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