Contractor-Operated Buses Account for Majority of PMPML Accidents in Past Three Years

Pune, 20th June 2025: A total of 385 accidents involving Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) buses have occurred over the past three years, with a staggering 237 of these involving contractor-operated buses, according to data released by PMPML.

PMPML currently operates across 392 routes covering Pune city, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and rural areas under the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). The fleet includes 650 government-owned buses and 950 buses operated by private contractors.

Accidents Result in 87 Deaths, 110 Serious Injuries
Between April 2022 and June 10, 2025, the 385 reported accidents led to 87 fatalities and 110 serious injuries, along with 188 minor injuries, as per PMPML’s internal records.
Of the total accidents:
-237 were caused by contractor-operated buses, resulting in 51 deaths and 74 serious injuries.
-148 were linked to PMPML-owned buses, leading to 36 deaths and 36 serious injuries.

The issue of road safety has resurfaced following a tragic incident on June 10 in Daund taluka, where a pedestrian was fatally hit by a PMPML bus in the Rahu-Devkarwadi area. Officials acknowledge that on average, 8 to 10 accidents involving PMPML buses occur every month.

In response to concerns, PMPML’s Chief Manager of Operations, Satish Gawhane, stated, “Drivers provided by contractors are required to be properly trained. PMPML regularly organizes counseling sessions and training workshops to improve driver awareness and road safety.”