Commuting in Pune to get easier as PMPML all set to buy 800 new buses

Out of the 800 new buses sanctioned, 400 buses will run on CNG.

The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) on Wednesday approved the proposal to purchase 800 new buses in the next one and half years.

The PMPML administration will float tenders soon and expect to add to its fleet in the next one and half years. (HT FILE PHOTO)

Public transport utility chairman and managing director Tukaram Munde told the media that 400 of the new buses will run on CNG and the remaining on diesel. PMPML board of director’s meeting held on Wednesday was attended by Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad mayors, standing committee chairpersons of both municipal corporations and respective municipal commissioners.

As it was planned earlier to buy only CNG-run buses, a study found that buses running on diesel were more fuel efficient. Hence, the board decided to procure equal number of both buses. The PMPML administration will float tenders soon and expect to add to its fleet in the next one and half years. The board also gave its go ahead to increase the monthly pass rates from Rs1,200 to Rs1,400 and decided to scrap weekly passes for commuters. PMPML will also provide free passes to HIV-positive commuters.