Pune: PMPML to Launch Double-Decker Buses in Pune’s IT Hubs Hinjawadi, Magarpatta, Kharadi on Trial Basis
Pune, 4th August 2025: After a three-year delay, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is all set to reintroduce double-decker buses, this time with a modern electric twist. The service will initially be launched on a trial basis in major IT park zones across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, including Hinjawadi, Magarpatta, and Kharadi.
The move comes following a series of discussions between PMPML officials and representatives from Switch Mobility, the electric vehicle arm of Ashok Leyland. A team from Switch Mobility is expected to visit Pune next week to inspect the proposed routes and assess feasibility before rolling out the first phase of the service.
Modern, Eco-Friendly, and High-Capacity Buses
The new double-decker buses will be:
Fully electric and air-conditioned
Equipped with digital ticketing systems
Designed with a look inspired by London’s iconic red buses
Fitted with advanced suspension systems for smoother rides
Each bus will have a seating capacity of up to 70 passengers, and can accommodate 40 standing passengers, allowing over 100 commuters per trip—a significant improvement in capacity compared to standard buses.
The buses are also designed to navigate urban infrastructure smoothly. With a height of 14 feet 4 inches, they will not obstruct Pune Metro stations or flyovers.
Each double-decker bus comes with a price tag of around ₹2 crore. Despite the higher upfront cost, PMPML officials highlight that the maintenance expenses are expected to be low compared to the older SLF-type diesel double-decker buses previously used, which were retired due to high operational costs.
Pilot Phase to Guide Expansion
“We are going to start double-decker service on the routes where IT companies are present on a pilot basis. After the Switch Mobility team surveys the routes, the buses will begin operations,” said Pankaj Deore, Chairman and Managing Director of PMPML.
The pilot run will help identify any challenges related to traffic, infrastructure, or passenger response. Based on its success, the number of double-decker buses may be scaled up.
PMPML at a Glance
Fleet size: 1,650 buses
Daily ridership: Approximately 12 lakh passengers
Daily revenue: ₹1.5 crore
Routes covered: 381
Daily distance covered: Around 3.6 lakh km
PMPML officials, including Deore and Joint Managing Director Nitin Narvekar, visited Mumbai on Saturday to inspect Switch Mobility’s double-decker bus models and hold technical discussions. With growing traffic and rising demand for sustainable transport, the double-decker fleet is expected to enhance both capacity and commuter experience.
The reintroduction of these high-capacity, electric buses marks a significant step in modernizing Pune’s public transportation while catering to its ever-expanding IT workforce.
