Pune PMPML Fleet Expansion Step Towards Sustainable Public Transport
The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is on the cusp of a significant transformation as it seeks to enhance its public transport network to meet the ever-growing demand from commuters. Currently operating with a fleet of 2,030 buses across 367 routes, PMPML has outlined an ambitious plan to increase its fleet to 8,000 by 2034, a target that will eventually rise to 15,000 by 2054. This expansion plan is set to include the transition to an entirely electric bus fleet, a move aimed at improving sustainability and reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The need for such a robust expansion has become more pressing as Pune’s population continues to grow, leading to a corresponding increase in urban travel. According to officials, PMPML’s fleet needs an additional 6,000 buses to meet commuter demand. These new buses will not only alleviate congestion but also help reduce the reliance on private vehicles, which has become a major concern for city planners. As the city aims to reduce its dependence on petrol and diesel vehicles, a cleaner, more efficient public transport system is seen as a crucial solution for improving urban mobility while also reducing pollution.
A key component of the expansion is the development of new depots and terminals to support the growing fleet. Currently, PMPML operates 16 depots, but the revised comprehensive mobility plan (CMP) includes proposals for 16 new depots in areas such as Khed Shivapur, Bhukum, and Mulshi, among others. These new facilities will allow the buses to be better maintained and ensure smoother operations across the network. Additionally, 10 major terminals are set to be redeveloped, including those at strategic locations like Pulgate, Chinchwad, and Chakan, to improve connectivity in Pune’s outer regions.
From a sustainability standpoint, the shift to an electric fleet is particularly notable. As cities across the globe look for ways to tackle pollution and lower their environmental impact, Pune’s initiative sets a strong precedent for urban sustainability. Electric buses are seen as an essential part of the green transport revolution, offering not only zero-emission travel but also lower operating costs in the long term. The city’s increased commitment to electric mobility will significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with the government’s broader goals of promoting clean and sustainable urban transport solutions. Moreover, with the new depots and terminals strategically located, PMPML will be able to ensure that the services run efficiently, optimising resources and further contributing to sustainability.
This expansion plan also addresses key civic issues faced by the city’s residents, such as traffic congestion and air pollution. With private vehicle numbers on the rise, Pune has been grappling with clogged roads and deteriorating air quality. By increasing the number of buses and improving public transportation infrastructure, the PMPML is not only enhancing commuter experience but also contributing to a cleaner, greener, and more liveable urban environment. However, the long-term success of these measures will depend on how well the plans are executed, particularly in terms of timely infrastructure development and the seamless integration of electric buses into the existing network.
