State transport utility cancels over 521 bus trips in Nashik due to heavy rain & possibility of landslides

Nashik: Relentless rainfall across Nashik district on Tuesday disrupted Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) services, forcing the cancellation of 521 bus trips and causing revenue losses of over Rs 11 lakh.The cancellations mainly affected routes passing through Bhavadbari Ghat, Trimbakeshwar, Saptashrungi Gad, Peth, Kalwan and Surgana after the district administration closed key transit routes, including Bhavadbari Ghat in Deola taluka and Nanduri Ghat leading to Saptashrungi Gad, citing the risk of landslides and flooding.MSRTC officials issued strict instructions to drivers not to operate buses on waterlogged roads or overflowing bridges to ensure passenger safety amid the ongoing heavy rain spell.Despite the large-scale disruption, bus stands did not witness major crowds as schools, colleges and several industrial units remained closed following warnings of extremely heavy rainfall in parts of the district. While fears of a cloudburst in Nashik, Trimbakeshwar and Igatpuri did not materialise, several areas recorded intense showers.MSRTC officials said services would be restored gradually once weather conditions improve and routes are declared safe for operation by the authorities.