Maharashtra Transport Minister and State Road Corporation Chairman Pratap Sarnaik on Friday announced that a dedicated helpline for school and college students will soon be launched to address difficulties faced during their daily commute on state buses.

The minister made the announcement after interacting with students during his visit to Dharashiv Central Bus Stand, where several students highlighted issues such as buses not arriving on time, sudden cancellations, overcrowding, and buses skipping designated stops. Students said these disruptions often lead to academic loss, late arrival at home, and in some cases, punishment from parents. Sarnaik noted that such travel issues cause distress and contribute to student suicides, and urged the local ST administration to treat the matter with utmost seriousness.