Pune: PMPML Accelerates Bus Stop With Shed Project Amid Rising Passenger Demand
Pune, 27th March 2024: In response to prolonged wait times endured by passengers during the scorching summer months, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) administration has commenced the establishment of 50 new bus stops out of a total of 300 stops in the initial phase. This proactive measure is aimed at enhancing passenger convenience during the upcoming summer season, with assurances from the administration that the project will be swiftly executed.
While the PMPML buses serve commuters across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the PMRDA boundaries, concerns have been raised regarding the deplorable condition of bus stops within the city, excluding those along the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route. Residents in suburban areas such as Bhosari, Chinchwad, Akurdi, and Nigdi lament the absence of designated stops, forcing them to wait along roadways.
In response to the longstanding issue, the PMPML administration has resolved to construct 300 stainless steel bus stops. Over the past four years, the organization grappled with the challenge of securing suitable bus stop locations, encountering numerous setbacks including the failure to elicit responses from potential advertisers despite eight tender invitations. Notably, revisions were made to the regulations governing bus stop placements. In the initial phase encompassing the first 50 stops, contractors have been directed to expedite installation within specified timelines. The administration has assured that construction of the remaining stops will be undertaken across all locales within the next year to year and a half.
The newly designed stainless steel bus stops, spanning 20 meters in length and five meters in width, represent a significant improvement over the existing 18-feet by 4-feet stops. This expanded design aims to offer ample space for passengers, providing respite from adverse weather conditions such as heat and rain.
Despite Pimpri-Chinchwad’s burgeoning urban sprawl and its substantial daily revenue generation ranging from 25 to 30 lakhs, only 12 bus stops have been designated for the area. This disparity has left commuters clamouring for additional stops, particularly amidst the impending summer season, where the demand for stops is expected to escalate.
The PMPML has received a staggering 20,000 complaints from passengers over the past year, encompassing grievances related to buses, stops, and other operational aspects. This marked increase from previous years underscores growing dissatisfaction among commuters. Questions linger regarding the administration’s handling of these complaints, raising doubts about the efficacy of resolution measures implemented thus far.
