Pune, Maharashtra: In a bid to enhance commuter accessibility, the Maha Metro in collaboration with the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has launched air-conditioned (AC) feeder bus services from Ramwadi Metro station to prominent business hubs in Kharadi.
The initiative, which commenced on Wednesday, aims to facilitate seamless travel for passengers commuting to destinations such as EON IT Park and the World Trade Centre. Operational at a frequency of every 30 minutes, the AC feeder buses will traverse a route covering key areas including Wadgaon Sheri, Vimannagar, Chandannagar, and Kharadi Bypass, spanning approximately 7 kilometers from Ramwadi station, which marks the terminal point of the Metro route. This service will cater to commuters with at least 20 designated stops along the way, offering fares ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 15 based on the distance traveled. The decision to introduce these feeder buses follows the extension of Metro services to Ramwadi earlier this year by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro). Notably, a similar AC feeder service was also initiated to Lohegaon airport, garnering positive feedback from commuters. Officials anticipate a similar response for the new Ramwadi-Kharadi route, emphasizing its strategic planning based on factors like distance, travel time, road conditions, population density, and local employment hubs.
Despite the positive reception, demands persist among regular travelers for further extension of Metro services beyond Ramwadi, particularly towards Wagholi. A residents have highlighted the growing population and commuting needs beyond Ramwadi, underscoring the potential benefits of extending Metro connectivity to Wagholi. The introduction of AC feeder buses represents a concerted effort to integrate public transport solutions that cater to evolving commuter patterns and alleviate congestion on city roads. Future adjustments to service frequency will be made based on passenger demand and operational feedback, ensuring optimal utilization and effectiveness of the new transportation initiative in Pune.
