Comprehensive Review of Shivneri Bus Services

Mumbai to Pune travel by Shivneri Bus Services has left a bitter taste in many travelers' mouths. Upon delving into the experiences of several passengers, it is evident that the service often falls short of expectations. In this article, we will explore the issues faced, including poor customer service, overcrowding, and unexpected delays, detailing a case of significant dissatisfaction one passenger experienced during their journey.

Disappointing Customer Experience in Shivneri Bus Services

Traveling from Borivali to Pune via Shivneri Bus Services has been nothing short of disastrous. The experience is vividly captured in the recount of a traveler, whose account will take us through the journey, the encountered dramas, and the overall view of Shivneri Bus Services.

The incident began when the traveler sought additional tickets for their friend waiting in Khargar. The conductor's response was far from cordial, saying, "If you want to pick someone up, do it from Khargar. Why do you need a ticket?" It is a common policy to book tickets from any point where the bus is, but this conductor refused to accommodate the request. Undeterred, the friend entered the bus from Khargar, only to be received with a curt, "No more seats available." The driver's uncaring attitude resulted in dropping the friend off in an unending stretch of road, a behavior that reflects the utter disregard for passenger comfort let alone respect.

This scenario is reflective of a broader pattern of poor service within Shivneri Bus Services. If the bus did not allow booking tickets from any station, an alternative or better solution should have been provided. The conductors and drivers could at least display some level of customer care, but such attitudes seem to be the hallmark of this service. This is not the kind of service one would expect from a trusted transport provider. Had there been a rating system allowing negative stars, the traveler would undoubtedly have given Shivneri Bus Services a minus one-star review—the least they deserve in the eyes of a paying customer.

Historical Travel Experience: Expectations vs. Reality

A contrasting account from a past journey provides another insight into the nature of Shivneri Bus Services. A traveler's 2019 trip from Aurangabad to Pune, while experiencing exhilaratingly luxurious expectations, ended in disappointment. Planning a trip, this family usually opted for a private Alto vehicle due to their comfort. However, the allure of Shivneri's sky-blue Volvo bus, a symbol of childhood dreams, finally came to fruition.

Initial purchase of the ticket from the counter and a quick boarding set the stage for an unmemorable journey. As the bus took off, the traveler's excitement began to dissipate. The seats were described as worn, small, and dirty, and the interior was unclean. Over time, the distinction between regular and Shivneri buses became more visible; however, it did not significantly improve the overall experience.

Speed-wise, the bus demonstrated a higher top speed compared to other buses, but the initial promises of a journey duration of 3.5 hours via RedBus and 4 hours via MSRTC were far from accurate, as it took 6 hours to complete the rather short distance. Furthermore, the delay in the journey wasn't helped by the unexpected start of rain. The air conditioner, an essential element for passenger comfort on a bumpy journey, became intensely cold, making the toilet break necessary in Ahmednagar quite uncomfortable. Despite attempting to stop at a hotel 20 minutes from Ahmednagar, the driver continued without a break, leaving the traveler feeling frustrated and disappointed.

Expert Recommendations for an Alternative Travel Experience

For travelers considering a similar route, Shivneri Bus Services is advised against. Mumbai to Pune is best avoided via this service, and several alternatives are suggested. Trains like the Intercity or Deccan Queen offer a far superior experience, with comfortable seating, cleanliness, and reliable service. Similarly, private taxis provide the luxury of comfort and convenience. Due to the age and poor maintenance of Shivneri's fleet, these options are recommended to ensure a smoother and more pleasant journey.

Passengers who value their time and comfort would be wise to reconsider their choice of public transport for the Mumbai to Pune route. In summary, Shivneri Bus Services, though it promised a luxurious ride, failed to deliver on the basic criteria of respect, comfort, and timely operations.