Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 17: With Holi approaching and thousands of migrant workers preparing to return to their hometowns in the Konkan region, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has announced a large-scale festive transport plan under its “Holi Extra Operation 2026”.

The state transport body will operate 198 additional bus trips from the Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad divisions between February 27 and March 5, 2026. The iconic red MSRTC buses, popularly known as Lalpari, will provide affordable and reliable travel options during the peak holiday rush.

The Thane and Mumbai divisions will handle the majority of the operations. The Thane division has scheduled 79 trips, of which 71 are already fully booked through advance reservations. The Mumbai division will operate 62 trips, including 37 fully reserved services and 25 kept open for group bookings.

The Palghar division has planned 24 trips exclusively for group bookings, while the Raigad division will run 33 trips, all of which have already been reserved for confirmed passengers. Officials said the booking pattern highlights the strong reliance on MSRTC services during festive seasons.

Passenger demand is expected to peak on February 28 and March 1, when 91 and 59 trips respectively will be operated, as most travellers prefer to reach their native places just before Holi celebrations. Special monitoring and operational arrangements will be put in place on these days to manage crowds and maintain schedules.

Of the total 198 additional trips, 141 are earmarked for regular reservations and 57 for group bookings, catering to families, community groups and organised travellers.

MSRTC officials said the special operation is aimed at easing congestion, ensuring passenger safety and preventing arbitrary fare hikes by private transport operators during the festive period.