PMPML to add 500 new CNG buses to its fleet by the end of November

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) will add 500 new CNG buses to its fleet by the end of November. Of these, 400 will be owned by PMPML, while 100 will be operated by the contractor Balaji. All the buses are being built by Tata Motors.

A team of PMPML officials recently went to Lucknow to inspect the buses. The team found some shortcomings, and the manufacturer has been told to make the necessary corrections before handing over the buses. The officials pointed to problems with the support structure near the front and rear doors, welding joints and gaps between tubes at some places. A water test also found leakage above the BRT doors and near the door glass panels. Tata Motors has been directed to fix all these defects.

PMPML chief engineer Narayan Karde said the manufacturer has also been asked to fit sensors on both main doors. It has also been asked to properly install IP-based rear-view cameras, dashboard cameras (dashcams), destination boards and a vehicle tracking system.

PMPML's fleet currently has 1,961 buses. Of these, 684 are owned by the transport body and 1,277 are run by contractors. Of the 500 buses due by the end of November, 400 will be PMPML's own and the remaining 100 will be run by Balaji.

PMPML chairman and managing director Mahesh Awhad said, "With the arrival of 500 new buses, PMPML's passenger services will become stronger."