Pune Launches Double-Decker Electric Bus Trials for Sustainable Transit

Post by : Meena Rani

In a significant stride towards modernizing urban transportation, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has launched an eight-day trial of double-decker electric buses. This initiative aims to enhance passenger capacity and promote eco-friendly transit solutions in the city.

Trial Details and Specifications

The trial commenced on September 16, 2025, with a fully air-conditioned electric double-decker bus provided by Switch Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland. The bus, measuring 9.5 meters in length, 4.75 meters in height, and 2.6 meters in width, offers a seating capacity of 65 and can accommodate up to 85 passengers, including standing space. Each bus is priced at approximately ₹2 crore and boasts a range of 150 kilometers on a single charge, requiring about two hours for a full recharge.

The buses are equipped with modern amenities such as CCTV cameras for enhanced security, air-conditioning for passenger comfort, and a digital ticketing system to streamline operations. These features align with PMPML's commitment to providing safe, comfortable, and efficient public transportation options.

Operational Routes and Future Plans

The trial buses are being tested on four key routes:

• Hinjewadi Phase-3 to Ramwadi Metro Station

• Ramwadi Metro Station to International Tech Park, Kharadi

• Magarpatta City to Kalyaninagar Metro Station

• Pune Railway Station to Lohegaon Airport via Viman Nagar

These routes were selected to cater to high-density areas, particularly focusing on IT hubs like Hinjewadi and Magarpatta, where commuter demand is substantial. PMPML Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj Deore emphasized the importance of selecting routes with clear roads, free from trees and overhead cables, to ensure safe and efficient operations.

If the trial proves successful, PMPML plans to induct 10 such buses into its fleet by Diwali. The buses will be operated under a gross cost contract (GCC) model, with private contractors managing daily operations. Plans include evaluating passenger response and operational performance to determine the feasibility of expanding the fleet further.

Addressing Operational Challenges

PMPML's initiative comes amidst ongoing challenges in its existing fleet operations. In recent months, PMPML buses have faced numerous breakdowns, with private contractor-operated buses and PMPML-owned vehicles both affected. Despite the introduction of a 15-point checklist to prevent mechanical failures—including checks on brakes, tires, electrical systems, and cleanliness—some buses still experienced operational issues, particularly due to heavy rainfall in Pune and surrounding areas.

To mitigate these issues, PMPML has introduced a 15-point checklist for drivers and depot maintenance engineers, similar to preflight checks conducted by aircrew. The checklist includes essential tasks such as inspecting wheels, brakes, clutch, gears, indicators, and the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), as well as checking for cleanliness and unusual engine noises. Drivers must report the results to maintenance engineers before being allowed to operate the bus. Penalties for non-compliance include docking half a day’s pay from both the driver and the engineer involved.

Public Reception and Future Outlook

The introduction of double-decker electric buses has been met with positive feedback from commuters, particularly IT professionals who frequently travel between hubs like Hinjewadi and Kharadi. Many have expressed optimism that these buses will alleviate overcrowding and offer a more comfortable commuting experience.

PMPML aims to integrate these buses into the city's broader public transport network, aligning with the city's Comprehensive Mobility Plan, which envisions over 6,000 buses to meet growing demand. Currently, PMPML operates fewer than 2,000 buses, leading to overcrowding and limited transport options for residents. The introduction of double-decker electric buses is expected to significantly enhance passenger capacity while also contributing to a reduction in the city's carbon footprint.

This initiative places Pune at the forefront of sustainable urban mobility in India, setting a precedent for other cities to follow in adopting eco-friendly and efficient public transportation solutions.

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