Besides its expansion plans, the MSRTC, which incurred losses to the tune of Rs 200.65 crore, has also decided to improve amenities to attract more passengers. The income generated through this commercial venture would be utilised to upgrade MSRTC facilities and add new buses to its existing fleet.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Ashok Khot, managing director, MSRTC, said the corporation had identified areas for setting up the proposed commercial complexes and work would commence on a priority basis. A variety of consumables would be available in these centres.

"Earning profit is not our criteria, but for running the MSRTC smoothly, we need more funds. This would also help in reducing losses and the major share in losses is from the city circuit," he added.

According to an estimate, MSRTC is deploying about seven employees on anaverage on one bus service. "There are about 72 lakh passengers travelling in 16,130 buses daily in Maharasthra," he added.

The MSRTC has also planned lottery system for its passengers in all over the State. A bonanza of prizes including Maruti car, refrigerators, television and wrist watches will be awarded to lucky passengers every month.

"Passengers will have to keep `basic ticket' for one month as they would have to submit ticket for getting prizes," Khot added.

The issue of "lucky lottery" system, though is yet to come up before the board of directors of MSRTC. "The board is meeting next month and we are expecting clearance for this move," he informed. This lottery system would include not only air-conditioned, luxury, semi-luxury buses but also ordinary buses.