PUNE, 9 NOV. The fleet of Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is soon set to include 1,000 new electric buses. This significant initiative is being undertaken as part of the Central Government's ambitious 'Pradhan Mantri E-Drive Scheme'. The Maharashtra State Government has agreed to provide financial assistance and a guarantee for the purchase of these buses, which will give a major boost to Pune's public transport system.
This announcement was made by the Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, and Pune MP, Murlidhar Mohol. Mohol confirmed that a proposal for the purchase of these buses has been submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He also held detailed discussions with the Union Minister of Heavy Industries, H.D. Kumaraswamy, and stated that after deliberation with the State Chief Minister, the RBI has agreed to provide the financial assistance and guarantee.
Minister Mohol explained that the increasing population and number of vehicles in Pune have put pressure on the transport system. Currently, PMPML operates approximately 2,000 buses, while the city requires at least 4,000 buses to meet the demand. The addition of 1,000 new electric buses will bring a notable improvement in mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and help control pollution levels.
The objective of this initiative is to strengthen last-mile connectivity alongside the Pune Metro, providing citizens with a clean and efficient mode of transport. This move will not only bolster Pune’s eco-friendly transport infrastructure but also support India’s broader goal of promoting sustainable urban mobility. The proposal will now be sent to the Central Government for final approval.
