Special Correspondent
PUNE: Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd. (PMPML) has announced an extensive plan to provide special bus services for devotees traveling to major temples on the occasion of Mahashivratri, which will be observed on February 26, 2025.
With thousands of devotees from Pune and the surrounding suburbs expected to visit renowned temples like Nilkantheshwar (BSF Center, Panshet), Baneshwar (Nasrapur), and Ghoradeshwar Temple Base (Shankarwadi), PMPML has arranged both regular and additional buses to ensure smooth and convenient travel.
Special Bus Services for Key Temples
Mahashivratri sees a significant rise in the number of people visiting sacred shrines, and PMPML has meticulously planned services from major city locations to accommodate the increased demand. The bus services are designed to ensure timely, easy access to temples while minimizing the traffic load.
Here are the key routes for special bus services:
Katraj Snake Park to Baneshwar (Cheladi Phata)
First Bus: 5:30 AM
Total Buses: 11 buses
Frequency: One bus every 20 minutes
This route will provide convenient travel to Baneshwar, with services starting early in the morning and running at a regular interval, allowing devotees to reach the temple comfortably.
Swargate Main Bus Station to Nilkantheshwar (BSF Center, Panshet)
First Bus: 3:30 AM
Total Buses: 14 buses (12 additional buses included)
Frequency: Every 10 to 15 minutes
Devotees heading to Nilkantheshwar will have easy access to buses departing from Swargate, with 12 additional buses added to the regular service to ensure sufficient capacity. The frequency of buses will ensure minimal wait times.
Nigdi (Pawale Chowk) to Ghoradeshwar Temple Base (Shankarwadi)
First Bus: 5:20 AM
Total Buses: 24 buses
Frequency: Every 10 to 15 minutes
The Nigdi to Ghoradeshwar route will have the highest number of buses operating, with 24 buses running to handle the large crowds. Buses will depart at frequent intervals to ensure devotees can reach their destination on time.
In addition to the special services, PMPML will continue to operate its regular routes to ensure that daily commuters are not inconvenienced. Routes like 61, 296, 296A, 52A, 228, 305, 341, 342, 368, and 371 will remain functional as usual.
PMPML officials have urged devotees to take advantage of these special bus services to avoid congestion and ensure a hassle-free journey. With multiple buses running at frequent intervals, the management assures that passengers will experience smooth travel and timely arrivals at their destinations.
This initiative comes as part of PMPML’s commitment to providing safe and efficient public transport services, particularly during high-demand events like Mahashivratri, ensuring the convenience and safety of both commuters and devotees.
Devotees planning to visit the temples on Mahashivratri are encouraged to plan their trips early, take advantage of the special bus services, and enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling experience at the holy sites.
