PMP on the Brink: Pune’s Public Transport System Faces Major Challenges as Bus Numbers Dwindle
Pune: Pune’s public transport system, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML), is facing severe challenges as the number of operational buses in its fleet continues to decline. This decline is attributed to a range of issues, including bus breakdowns, the decommissioning of old buses, and a lack of interest from contractors in the tender process for new buses. These factors have pushed PMPML, often described as the lifeline of Pune’s commuting public, into a critical situation, with many now questioning its ability to serve the city’s growing population.
Declining Fleet and Rising Passenger Demand
Back in 2016, PMPML was operating with a fleet of 2,055 buses, catering to approximately 10 lakh daily passengers. In 2024, while the number of daily passengers has risen to between 13 and 14 lakh, the number of buses has decreased to just 1,528. This reduction in the fleet has led to overcrowded buses, longer waiting times, and overall frustration among commuters. The situation is becoming increasingly dire, with PMPML struggling to keep up with the growing demand for public transportation in Pune.
Contractors Pull Out, Buses Retired
Adding to the woes, two out of seven PMPML contractors have terminated their services, leading to the withdrawal of around 233 buses from operation. Furthermore, 60 buses reached the end of their 12-year lifespan in June and have been decommissioned, further reducing the fleet. The remaining buses are also ageing, with frequent breakdowns becoming a common occurrence. On average, 50 buses are breaking down on the roads every day, taking at least three to five days for repairs before they can return to service. This has severely impacted the frequency and reliability of bus services, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated.
Challenges in Procuring New Buses
The situation is exacerbated by the PMPML’s struggle to introduce new buses into its fleet. The tender process initiated in February 2024 for the purchase of new buses has failed to attract sufficient interest from potential suppliers. Despite the tender being reissued multiple times, the response has been lukewarm at best. This lack of interest has raised serious concerns about PMPML’s ability to replenish its dwindling fleet, with officials admitting that the process is moving at a snail’s pace.
Future Prospects Uncertain
Looking ahead, the challenges seem set to continue. In the coming months, around 500 more buses in the PMPML fleet are expected to reach the end of their service life, further compounding the problem. Even as the PMPML explores options to lease 400 CNG buses, the tender process for this initiative has also met with a tepid response. Without a concrete plan to address these issues, PMPML’s ability to maintain even its current level of service is in serious jeopardy.
Delayed Projects and Unfulfilled Promises
The PMPML has also been plagued by delays in key projects aimed at improving the quality of public transport in Pune. For instance, the much-anticipated launch of the ‘PMP Go’ mobile application, designed to enhance the commuting experience for passengers, has been delayed due to technical glitches. Initially promised to be launched in June 2024, the app’s release has been postponed multiple times, with no clear timeline for its availability.
Similarly, the opening of the Aundh Bus Depot, which was expected to be operational within a month after the completion of some construction work and the removal of scrap buses, has also been delayed. Despite assurances from PMPML officials, the depot remains non-functional, adding to the list of unmet promises.
Stalled Projects and Administrative Hurdles
Several other initiatives aimed at revitalising PMPML have also fallen by the wayside due to frequent transfers of key officials. While some officials have proposed projects that could have significantly improved PMPML’s operations, these initiatives have been stalled due to administrative hurdles and a lack of sustained focus. As a result, many promising projects are gathering dust, with no tangible benefits for the commuting public.
On this, Nitin Narvekar, Joint Managing Director, PMPM, said, “In the previous meeting of the board of directors of PMP, approval was given to take 400 CNG buses on lease. The tender process is going on, but it is not getting a good response. Therefore, it is not possible to predict when CNG buses will enter passenger service. The PMP administration has decided to purchase CNG buses. It is in process.”
