PMPML to Replace 327 Old Buses with 400 New CNG Buses by 2025

19 Dec 2024 CW Team

The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is set to upgrade its fleet with the addition of 400 new CNG buses by January 2025, while phasing out 327 old buses that have exceeded their operational lifespan. A new contractor has been awarded the tender to supply these buses, ensuring seamless operations during the transition. Nitin Narvekar, Joint Managing Director of PMPML, stated, "As we retire old buses, the new CNG buses will be introduced simultaneously to avoid disruptions. The tender for 400 contract CNG buses has been finalised, and they will be added to the fleet by January or the first week of February next year."

PMPML's fleet currently includes approximately 2,000 buses, with 1,005 owned by the corporation and around 950 on contract from four different vendors. These buses serve routes across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and rural areas, comprising a mix of CNG and electric vehicles. Earlier this year, PMPML ended contracts with two of its seven contractors, leading to the withdrawal of 233 buses from service. Additionally, 60 buses reached their 12-year lifespan in June, and 327 buses currently over 12 years old are slated for scrapping under PMPML's policy.

Regular commuter Mandakini Ahire expressed frustration over low bus frequency on certain routes, such as Swargate to Dhayari via Sinhagad. "We often wait over half an hour for buses during evening peak hours. PMPML should increase the number of buses to improve frequency," she said. The introduction of new CNG buses is expected to address such issues, enhance service reliability, and contribute to sustainable urban transport in the Pune region. (Hindustan Times)

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..