Pune: Despite several measures implemented by the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) over the past year, the number of accidents involving its buses has shown little change, reigniting safety concerns among commuters.
Accident Statistics
Between April 2025 and March 2026, 25 people lost their lives in 22 accidents involving PMPML buses. This marks only a marginal decline from the 29 deaths recorded in 25 accidents during 2024-25. In April 2026 alone, two fatal accidents have already occurred.
Official Response and Blame Game
PMPML's public relations officer, Kishor Chauhan, reiterated a familiar stance, stating: "There were two mishaps in which two persons died last month, but the buses were not owned by PMPML." This distinction between PMPML-owned and contractor-operated buses has been a recurring point of contention.
Safety concerns resurfaced last month when a PMPML bus veered off course and entered a shop at Appa Balwant Chowk. Although no injuries were reported, the incident reignited the debate over accountability.
Commuters Voice Concerns
Commuters have highlighted reckless driving, signal jumping, and abrupt lane changes as persistent issues, particularly during late evening hours. "For passengers, all buses are PMPML buses. This distinction between owned and contractor-run vehicles does not matter to us," said Somesh Patankar, a resident of Camp. "Drivers often speed and ignore traffic signals as if they are in a hurry."
Another daily commuter at the congested Juna Bazaar Chowk pointed out frequent rule violations, emphasizing that the problem is widespread.
PMPML's Internal Distinction
A senior PMPML official reiterated the organization's stance, drawing a clear line between its own drivers and those employed by contractors. "Our drivers are directly on payroll and are regularly trained in safe driving practices. They are less likely to violate rules. The issue largely lies with contractor-operated buses, where drivers may not adhere strictly to regulations," the official said.
Critics argue that this distinction does little to address the core problem of safety, as passengers continue to face risks regardless of who operates the bus.
