Pune's Public Transport Faces Setback as Bus Fleet and Ridership Decline in 2025
The economic survey report for the state has revealed a concerning trend for Pune's public transport system. According to the data, the number of PMPML buses operating daily and the count of daily commuters both experienced a dip in 2025 when compared to the previous year, 2024.
Declining Numbers Highlight Transport Challenges
In 2024, an average of 1,658 buses were on the roads each day, serving a passenger traffic of 12.1 lakh commuters. However, in 2025, these figures fell to 1,558 buses daily and 11.3 lakh commuters. This reduction presents a grim reality for the transport utility, indicating potential issues with service reliability and efficiency.
Delays in Fleet Expansion and Electric Bus Plans
Transport body officials have acknowledged that the process of introducing new buses has been slow. An official stated that tenders for only 600 out of the planned 1,000 CNG buses have been finalized. Ashok Leyland is expected to begin deliveries from April or May, but the remaining tenders are still pending.
Additionally, plans for electric double-decker buses have hit a roadblock. Last year, authorities announced that around 15 such buses would operate on select routes in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad, with a trial run scheduled. However, the project is currently on hold, with officials citing that the CMD is out of state for a training program, and no further details can be provided at this time.
Traffic Congestion and Expert Concerns
Pune's traffic problems are well-documented, with the city being declared the fifth most congested in the world in the Tomtom traffic index study of 2025, boasting an average congestion level of over 70%. Transport experts have long emphasized the need for serious focus on bus services to control traffic.
Sustainable mobility expert Pranjali Deshpande highlighted that past dialogues have called for at least 4,500 additional buses in the PMPML fleet. She pointed out that the current fleet stands at only around 2,000 buses, with many routes being ignored or under-served. Issues such as maintenance, service improvement, and reliability have not been adequately addressed, according to her.
Commuters Voice Frustration and Shift to Alternatives
Commuters have expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of PMPML services. Paresh Joshi, a resident of Kothrud and office-goer, noted that the drop in passenger traffic suggests people are exploring other means of transport until concrete improvements are made. He mentioned that ridership has remained stagnant between 11 lakh to 12 lakh for years, and decreasing numbers indicate a lack of interest in PMPML buses unless no other choice is available.
Joshi questioned why he should opt for a PMPML bus over his two-wheeler or car when timely arrival is not guaranteed. He criticized the administration for showing no desire to improve the transport utility, reflecting broader public sentiment.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Urgent Action
The decline in bus numbers and ridership underscores the urgent need for the state government and transport authorities to prioritize public transport enhancements. With Pune grappling with severe traffic congestion, a robust and reliable bus system is crucial for sustainable mobility and urban development. Stakeholders are calling for accelerated procurement processes, revived electric bus initiatives, and comprehensive service improvements to regain commuter trust and alleviate traffic woes.
