The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has faced a staggering 4,264 bus breakdowns in the first three months of 2024, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year. This surge in breakdown incidents has raised concerns among commuters and highlighted the pressing need for improvements in the city’s public transportation infrastructure.
Alarming Statistics
- Rising Breakdowns: The latest data reveals a stark reality, with a 50% increase in bus breakdowns compared to the first quarter of the previous year. In 2023, PMPML recorded 2,818 breakdowns during the same period, highlighting a concerning trend of deteriorating bus reliability.
- Operational Challenges: Despite a fleet of 1,948 buses, a staggering 75% to 79% of PMPML buses experienced breakdowns in January, February, and March 2024. These breakdown incidents have severely disrupted commuter routines and exposed the inadequacies within the city’s public transport system.
Commuter Perspectives
- Plight of Commuters: Commuters like Krishna Patil and Agnish Jadhav express frustration and disappointment over the recurring breakdowns. Patil recounts an incident where passengers were stranded under the scorching sun due to a sudden bus malfunction, underscoring the adverse impact on daily commuters’ lives.
- Persistent Challenges: The frequency of breakdowns has persisted despite assurances from PMPML officials and authorities. Aggrieved commuters like Satish Rahane lament the perceived incompetence of PMPML officials and the delay in acquiring new buses to address the fleet shortage.
PMPML’s Response
- Official Statement: Sanjay Kolte, the Vice-Chairman and Managing Director of PMPML, acknowledges the operational challenges and asserts that efforts are underway to minimize breakdown incidents. He clarifies changes in the accounting of breakdown incidents and assures that corrective actions will be taken to hold responsible parties accountable.
- Criticism and Challenges: However, critics like Sanjay Shitole of PMP Pravasi Manch dismiss PMPML’s efforts as inadequate, labeling them as mere ‘eyewash’. Shitole highlights systemic issues within PMPML, including frequent leadership changes and a lack of accountability, contributing to the persistent breakdown crisis.
