Pune: IT Student Creates Fake PMPML App, Travels Free for Months; Case Registered

Pune, 11st September 2026: An IT student allegedly used his coding and programming skills to create a replica of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) official mobile application and generate fake daily passes, allowing him to travel on buses for free for several months.

The alleged fraud came to light after an alert PMPML conductor noticed discrepancies in the daily pass shown by the student. Following a complaint by PMPML assistant depot manager, Koregaon Park police have registered a case against Prathamesh Laxman Boge (20).

According to police, the incident came to light on August 30 when Boge was travelling on a Bhekrainagar-Alandi bus. At around 5.30pm, conductor Dattatray Jayabhaye noticed something suspicious about the daily pass shown by the student near the Ruby Hall bus stop. The colour and appearance of the pass appeared unusual, prompting the conductor to immediately alert senior officials.

Police suspect Boge, who is pursuing an IT course at a reputed college, developed the fake application using his coding and programming knowledge. The application allegedly enabled him to generate fake daily passes and use them for bus travel without paying the fare.

Koregaon Park police have registered a case and are investigating the matter.

PMPML officials said the alertness of the conductor helped prevent financial losses to the transport undertaking. They also clarified that the official PMPML application was not compromised or affected by the incident.

PMPML director Ajay Khedekar said parents should remain vigilant about how their children use money, including funds given to them for bus tickets.

“Parents need to be alert and should keep track of how the money given for tickets is being used. A similar incident was reported in the Ramwadi area, where a case was registered with the Airport police. We will not support anyone involved in such acts. Whether the person is young or old, such conduct must be dealt with appropriately,” Khedekar said.

Officials also noted that the use of AI to create fake applications is increasing, raising concerns over the growing threat of cybercrime. There is a need for timely action against those misusing technology, including students with advanced technical skills, they said.