In a major step toward streamlining urban mobility, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is gearing up to launch a comprehensive aggregator-based passenger app named ‘Chhava Ride’. This move is set to revolutionize how commuters in Maharashtra book and access public and private transport services—all through a single platform.
According to PTI, the app is being developed under the central and state government’s aggregator policy. It will enable passengers to book rides for various modes of transport, including MSRTC buses, autorickshaws, taxis, and electric buses (e-buses), from one unified application.
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ToggleThe announcement was made by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik during a recent high-level meeting. He emphasized that MSRTC, being a government-backed entity with vast experience in public transportation, is best positioned to operate such an aggregator app.
Sarnaik added that ‘Chhava Ride’ aims to offer a trusted, transparent, and government-regulated mobility solution for daily commuters. By providing seamless access to a wide range of transport options, the platform is expected to enhance user convenience and safety while also creating a new revenue stream for MSRTC.
Though detailed specifications are yet to be released, the ‘Chhava Ride’ app is expected to include the following features:
The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to digital transformation in public transport, while also addressing growing concerns about the unregulated nature of private ride-hailing platforms.
The launch of Chhava Ride comes just a week after Minister Sarnaik publicly criticized private aggregators for allegedly exploiting both drivers and passengers. In mid-July 2025, the Maharashtra government launched a crackdown on platforms like Uber Shuttle and other unauthorized bus aggregators for operating without valid licenses.
By introducing a government-operated aggregator app, the state aims to ensure compliance, standardize pricing, and safeguard the interests of both drivers and passengers. It also underscores the government’s intent to bring fairness and order to the rapidly evolving transport tech space.
This strategic move is not only expected to enhance commuter trust but also improve MSRTC’s financial position. With growing competition from private aggregators, public transport bodies have been exploring ways to modernize and compete. Chhava Ride could be a game-changer by leveraging MSRTC’s extensive fleet and reach with modern digital infrastructure.
As urban mobility becomes increasingly digitized, Maharashtra’s Chhava Ride app could emerge as a powerful alternative to private aggregators, ensuring safer, more affordable, and more accountable transport services. Its success could also inspire similar initiatives in other Indian states aiming to regulate and upgrade public transportation systems through tech-driven platforms.