Mumbai: On the occasion of the Amrut Mahotsav celebration of ST, several decisions have been taken by the state government to develop the basic facilities of ST for the convenience of passengers. Decisions are also being taken for the benefit of ST employees. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated that the modernization of ST will make this public transport system capable of providing passengers with excellent facilities. The program was held at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan in Mumbai. At the time, Chief Minister Shinde spoke as the chairman. MLA Bharat Gogawale, ST's goodwill ambassador and actor Makarand Anaspure, Secretary of Transport and Ports Department Parag Jain Nainuttia, ST's Vice President and Administrative Director Shekhar Channe, and Transport Commissioner Shri. Bhimanwar were also present.
Chief Minister Shinde said that the 75th anniversary of ST and the 75th anniversary of the country's independence are a combination of milk and sugar. ST has been Maharashtra's public transport system for 75 years. The ST Corporation should work for the welfare and happiness of the masses. ST's service should be of high quality and people-oriented. The state government has provided free travel to senior citizens over the age of 75 and a 50% discount to women.
Chief Minister Shinde further stated that the government should make decisions in the interest of the people, and the law should also be in the interest of the people. The government has made several decisions in the interest of the people in the past. Farmers who suffered losses due to continuous rainfall have been given a grant of Rs. 1500 crore. The construction of the metro project, roads, and other basic facilities is progressing rapidly. It is essential to make public transportation efficient, and various options are being developed under the government's supervision. The ST Corporation has made adequate arrangements for the Ashadi Wari pilgrimage. The concrete work of ST bus stations in the state is being completed, and the idea of bus ports is being considered. For this, a fund of 250 crores will be given in the first installment. The Mahamandal will create a source of revenue by increasing the value of the ST land.
Chief Minister Shri Shinde said the government is working to change the face of ST. New electric and eco-friendly buses will be included in Mahamandal's fleet. Soon, 7,000 buses will be available in the Mahamandal's fleet. According to the availability of land, mini theaters will be set up for Marathi films at bus stations. The government is positive about giving high-cost allowances to ST employees. Citizens should cooperate to keep ST buses and bus stations clean and beautiful, said Chief Minister Shri Shinde.
During the program, the first bus driver of Pune City, Sw. Kevat was paid tribute. The publication of the coffee table book of the Lokvahini of Maharashtra was also done by the dignitaries. Five drivers who have been providing accident-free service for 25 years were also honored. This includes Ajaz Khan Ismail Khan of Jalgaon, Vilas Nathe, Kazi Naimuddin of Talgaon Bhau Suryavanshi of Dhule, and Mehmood Chaudhary of Lasalgaon.
Three divisions in the state were awarded for their excellent work. This includes the Jalgaon, Jalna, and Bhandara. In this regard, Shahada, Karad, Beed, Ambad, Jamner, Chopda, Ralegaon, Soygaon, and Digras bus stations were awarded for their excellent work.
The inauguration of the Vishwarath exhibition showcasing the various plans and information of ST was done by Chief Minister Shri Shinde.
