The Maharashtra government has expanded Pune’s public transport infrastructure by launching new electric bus depots and accelerating metro development. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar inaugurated Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited’s (PMPML) e-bus depots at Charholi Budruk and Mann, supporting the state's ‘Green Maharashtra’ vision.

Under the Gross Cost Contract model, 60 e-buses will operate from Charholi and 30 from Mann. PMPML will induct 1,500 more buses with Rs 2.30 billion from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority for 500 CNG buses. Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporations will fund another 500 CNG buses, while 500 electric buses are planned.

Pawar emphasised ongoing infrastructure upgrades, including the Outer Ring Road by Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation and an Inner Ring Road by PMRDA. Metro projects are progressing with funding from the Centre, State and civic bodies. The Swargate-Katraj extension is approved, while new routes are under review.

PMPML Chairperson Deepa Mudhol-Munde noted that 1,967 buses serve 1,250 thousand passengers daily. Future plans include AI-based, conductor-less services. The initiative aims to create a smart, safe and sustainable urban transport system.

Source:Pune Mirror