Pratap Sarnaik officially took charge as the newly appointed Transport Minister of Maharashtra at the Mantralaya on Thursday. Senior officers and employees from the department were present to welcome him as he assumed his new responsibilities.

In his first interaction with the media after taking charge, Sarnaik expressed his commitment to bringing about significant changes to the state's transport system. He outlined several key decisions that would benefit the people of Maharashtra, including a 50% concession for senior citizens and women in transport services. Sarnaik emphasized that his primary focus would be to enhance the state’s transport services, increase revenue for the State Transport Minister's Board, and improve basic facilities for ST (State Transport) employees.

Sarnaik further highlighted his intention to introduce coherence within the ST Corporation. He stated that if tough decisions were required to improve operations and reach grassroots levels, he would take a firm stance.

The new minister also stressed the need to prioritize air transport alongside road transport. He pointed to the example of Bangalore’s ropeway transport, suggesting that introducing similar systems in the MMR area with 15-16 seater buses could help alleviate road traffic. Sarnaik assured that a detailed report would be prepared on this and presented to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in Delhi for further action.

Drawing inspiration from other states, Sarnaik noted that Gujarat’s bus depots are state-of-the-art and Karnataka’s passenger transport is well-equipped. He mentioned that his team would assess these systems to explore what best practices could be implemented in Maharashtra.

One of Sarnaik’s key visions is to make air passenger transport a major part of Maharashtra’s transportation infrastructure. He believes that with such initiatives, the state can become a leader in the country’s transport sector, earning recognition as a profit-making transport service.

Sarnaik concluded by stating that the changes will be implemented gradually, ensuring that the Transport Department is steered in a modern, efficient, and well-equipped direction for the benefit of all.

Sarnaik also expressed his gratitude to Shiv Sena Chief Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, for his support and trust.