Pune's Public Transport Gets Major Boost with 1,500 New Buses
The newly appointed Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML), Mahesh Awhad, has unveiled an ambitious expansion plan that will see 1,500 new buses added to the city's public transport fleet within the coming months. This significant initiative aims to transform Pune's commuting experience by addressing long-standing issues of reliability and capacity.
Three-Point Agenda for Transformation
Detailing his comprehensive roadmap for PMPML, Awhad outlined a clear three-point agenda focused on fundamental improvements:
- Ensuring Passenger Security: With particular attention to women and senior citizens
- Improving Comfort Levels: Making public transport a preferred choice for daily commuters
- Making the Service Dependable: Addressing punctuality and reliability concerns
Phased Fleet Expansion Strategy
The expansion will occur in two major phases. "By Diwali this year, we aim to have a total fleet size of 3,500 buses, a significant increase from our current strength of 1,961," announced Awhad, who assumed leadership of the struggling transport body just last week.
The first phase involves 1,000 CNG-powered buses that will join the PMPML fleet by July. These vehicles will be owned directly by the transport authority, ensuring better control and maintenance. "This expansion is crucial for both the organisation and the daily commuters," emphasized the CMD.
The second phase will see 500 electric buses (e-buses) inducted by Diwali, marking a significant step toward greener public transportation in Pune.
Strategic Integration with Pune Metro
A key component of the new strategy involves synchronizing PMPML services with the developing Pune Metro system. Awhad revealed that a major route rationalization process is already underway to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency.
"We have decided that PMPML buses will not run on routes parallel to the Metro. Instead, our goal is to strengthen feeder services. To do this effectively, we must eliminate route duplication," he explained, highlighting a more integrated approach to urban mobility.
Focus on Safety and Punctuality
The CMD emphasized that passenger safety remains a top priority, with specific measures planned to protect vulnerable groups. The administration will focus on encouraging better driving habits among staff members to ensure road safety for all.
"Travel comfort is another major concern. For public transport to be the preferred choice, buses must reach their destinations and stops on time. Improving punctuality will naturally reduce the traffic pressure on the city's roads," Awhad added, connecting service improvements to broader urban benefits.
Challenges and Skepticism
While transportation experts have long advocated for better fleet management and government intervention to reduce frequent bus breakdowns, some activists remain skeptical about administrative stability.
Sanjay Shitole, an activist with PMP Pravasi Manch, pointed to leadership instability as a persistent problem. "The biggest problem is that the state government rarely allows CMDs to complete their full three-year tenure. Until a leader is given the time to implement plans, the service will struggle to become truly dependable," Shitole cautioned.
Despite these concerns, the announcement represents the most substantial fleet expansion in PMPML's recent history and signals a renewed commitment to improving Pune's public transportation infrastructure.
