Pune Public Transport Set for Massive Overhaul: 1,000 New CNG Buses to Join PMPML Fleet by July
PUNE – In a move that promises to significantly ease the daily commute for lakhs of Punekars, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has announced the induction of 1,000 new CNG-powered buses. This expansion is part of a broader mission to more than double the city’s current fleet by the end of 2026.
PMPML CMD Outlines Vision for 4,500-Bus Fleet
The newly appointed Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of PMPML, Mahesh Awhad, revealed that the city’s transport body is currently operating at only one-third of its required capacity. With a population exceeding 1 crore, Pune ideally requires over 6,200 buses but currently manages with fewer than 2,000.
To bridge this gap, Awhad has set an aggressive target: “By July this year, 1,000 new CNG buses will be directly owned and operated by PMPML. Our goal is to hit a fleet size of 3,500 by Diwali and 4,500 by the close of 2026.”
Strengthening the Green Corridor: CNG and Electric Push
The fleet expansion isn’t just about quantity; it’s about sustainability. While 1,000 CNG buses are slated for a July arrival, PMPML is simultaneously fast-tracking the procurement of 1,000 electric buses under the Central Government’s PM E-DRIVE scheme. Tenders for these e-buses are expected to be finalized within April 2026, ensuring that Pune’s growth remains eco-friendly.
Route Rationalization: PMPML to Act as Metro Feeder
In a strategic shift, PMPML is moving away from competing with the Pune Metro. The transport body is undergoing a “route rationalization” process to eliminate overlapping services.
“We will not run buses on routes parallel to the Metro. Instead, we are pivoting to strengthen feeder services,” Awhad stated. This ensures that commuters can move seamlessly from their doorsteps to Metro stations, solving the long-standing “last-mile connectivity” crisis in suburban Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Focus on Safety, Punctuality, and Comfort
Beyond the numbers, the new administration is prioritizing the commuter experience. Key focus areas for the 2026 roadmap include:
- Safety First: Enhanced training for drivers to ensure the safety of women and senior citizens.
- Punctuality: Implementing tech-driven solutions to reduce “bus bunching” and waiting times at stops.
- Reliability: Direct ownership of the 1,000 new CNG buses is expected to reduce the maintenance issues often seen with contractor-run vehicles.
With this massive infusion of vehicles, PMPML aims to reclaim its spot as the preferred mode of transport for Pune’s growing workforce and student population.
