PMPML App Crosses 10 Lakh Downloads, But Real-Time Bus Tracking Still Unreliable, Say Pune Commuters
Reported by Kajal Bhukan
Pune, 10th July 2025: The adoption of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited’s (PMPML) mobile application, Apli PMPML, is increasing rapidly. It was launched on August 15, 2024, for Android users and later expanded to iOS platforms on January 26, 2025. The app has surpassed 10 lakh downloads, positioning itself as a key component in modernising Pune’s public transportation. The iOS launch, coinciding with India’s 76th Republic Day, marked a significant milestone in increasing accessibility and digital reach.
Just a day after the iOS release, on January 27, the app generated a record revenue of ₹20.19 lakh. This remarkable achievement reflects the growing shift among Pune commuters toward digitised transit. According to PMPML authorities, customer feedback influenced the development of the iOS version. The app is continuously evolving to accommodate passenger demands under the leadership of Chairperson and Managing Director Deepa Mudhol Munde.
Commuter-Friendly Features for Smart Travel
The Apli PMPML app offers a wide range of features aimed at improving the commuter experience. Its real-time bus tracking system allows users to plan routes based on their current location. The app also integrates UPI-enabled ticket booking and includes a built-in complaint system to enhance transparency and promote accountability.
Passengers can choose from daily passes priced at ₹70 and ₹150, with metro ticketing options available. These flexible pricing plans allow users to customise their commute based on their travel frequency and budget. PMPML continues to promote the app as part of its larger mission to reduce traffic congestion and reliance on personal vehicles.
Real-Time Tracking Falls Short, Say Commuters
Despite the app’s success, daily commuters have raised concerns over its real-time tracking feature. While the system displays buses currently on route, it often fails to provide accurate arrival estimates, especially for buses that haven’t departed from the depot.
Chaitanya Khedekar, a student and regular commuter, shared, “I travel daily, so I usually know my route. But if I need to switch routes, it becomes frustrating. Sometimes, one bus shows up three times, and then there’s a long gap with no bus for hours. The live tracking doesn’t help if the bus hasn’t left the depot. How are we supposed to plan?”
Another commuter from Charholi echoed the issue: “Even when I know my regular timing, there are delays or breakdowns. The app doesn’t reflect those disruptions, and live tracking becomes unreliable.”
Standing for Hours Amid Fare Hikes: Punekars Expect Better
“After a long day at work, we’re already exhausted—physically and mentally. But instead of heading home, we’re left standing at bus stops for hours, often in harsh weather—be it heat, rain, or cold—because the buses either don’t arrive or break down midway. When they do come, they’re so overcrowded, and the traffic only makes the journey more stressful,” says Anjali Raut, a daily commuter from Pune.
She adds, “Now that PMPML has hiked the fares, we expect better service. If we’re paying more, the least we deserve is reliable buses and accurate tracking.”
Convenience vs. Accuracy: A Mixed Experience
Despite tracking issues, many commuters appreciate the convenience of online payments. Ticketing via UPI expedites boarding and eliminates the need for cash handling.
“Even though live tracking is hit-or-miss, paying through the app is much easier,” said a daily commuter.
PMPML’s Response: Traffic & Unpredictability to Blame
When asked about improving the app’s real-time reliability, PMPML CMD Deepa Mudhol-Munde responded: “Trip cancellations are usually unplanned, which makes it difficult to issue prior notifications. However, alternative buses are typically available on those routes.”
“Most delays are caused by traffic congestion in the city. While PMPML may not directly control this, we are updating schedules to provide buses more time to complete their trips.”
The Road Ahead: Aligning Tech with Ground Realities
As Pune faces the challenges of rapid urban growth and mounting traffic, digital solutions like Apli PMPML are crucial for creating efficient transit systems. But for true success, technology must be backed by accurate, real-time service data.
For continued growth, PMPML must enhance the app’s tracking reliability—perhaps by incorporating depot-level updates, predictive analytics, and real-time delay notifications. These upgrades could significantly improve the user experience and help restore commuter trust.
In a city aspiring to become a smart urban hub, PMPML’s ongoing challenge is to ensure that the convenience promised by digital tools is matched by reliable on-ground service delivery. Only then will digital transit solutions truly serve the everyday needs of Punekars.
