Pune: PMPML service is expected to start soon
Pune August 16, 2020: The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is likely to soon start its bus services for general public after almost four months. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has given in-principle approval to start the service of PMPML; the PMP administration will try to resume services from August 22.
PMPML bus service in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad was suspended from March 25 due to the pandemic-led lockdown. It was only operation for essential services. However, when the business across the twin-city resumed under the ‘Mission Begin Again,’ during the unlock phase, many Puneities faced inconvenience as no public transport was available. Over one million passengers are dependent on PMPML for daily commuting purpose.
Taking note of this situation, PMPML’s newly appointed chairman and managing director Rajendra Jagtap was called by Pawar on Friday to discuss the current economic woes, including planning to restart the services. Pune Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar was also present at that time.
‘Most of the services and businesses have been started in the state. Even Metro and BEST have been allowed to start their services. Therefore, there is no issue to start the service of PMPML in Pune too. The administration should start their service after discussing the situation with both the municipal commissioners,” said Jagtap after meeting the Deputy CM.
PMPML incurred loss in crores during lockdown: As the PMPML service has been closed for four and a half months, the transport service has been hit by over Rs 1 to 1.5 crore daily. The department does not even have money to pay the salary to its employees. Therefore, Jagtap told Pawar that the PMPML needs financial help to make up for the shortfall in operations. “After the meeting with Deputy CM, discussions have been held with both the Municipal Commissioners. We will discuss them on Monday and Tuesday and plan to start the service. Efforts will be made to start the service by August 22,” said Jagtap.
