Pune’s public transport fines contractors Rs 26 lakh for poor bus maintenance

This will help both to department in tracking buses, while at the same time informing passengers about the ‘live’ status of respective buses,says official

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has recovered Rs 26 lakh in fines from contractors in the past one year, on account of 25 bus accidents, according to officials.

On August 26 two PMPML buses caught fire in two separate incidents in the city. (HT PHOTO)

Ajay Charthankar, joint chairman and managing director, PMPML said, “While, a few of the accidents are a result of technical failure resulting in the buses catching fire, some of them could have been avoided if proper maintenance was done by contractors.”

“PMPML takes action under three categories: recovering financial loss through fines; suspension of drivers; and taking action against depot engineers and workshop staff for sending buses out on the road without proper maintenance. We are taking strict action against contractors for their lack of maintenance. We cannot compromise on passenger safety,” says Charthankar.

On Monday, two PMPML buses caught fire in two separate incidents in the city.