In the face of a private bus contractor strike in August, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is committed to ensuring the uninterrupted and efficient operation of its bus services. This includes a strong focus on passenger safety, accident prevention, and minimizing breakdowns.
As a proactive response to this challenge, PMPML initiated a program to train its drivers in the operation of electric buses. To date, 484 PMPML drivers have successfully completed this training, equipping them to handle electric buses with confidence.
Out of PMPML’s fleet of 2,089 buses, 991 are owned by the corporation, and the remaining 1,098 are contracted. Among these, 640 buses from contractors are powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and 458 are electric. Notably, a strike by e-bus drivers in August disrupted PMPML’s services due to their specific demands.
Sachindra Pratap Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of the Transport Corporation, underscored the critical role of training and skill development in safeguarding the continuity of bus services. This training initiative covers not only the technical aspects of electric bus operation but also emphasizes the importance of providing courteous service to passengers, strict adherence to RTO (Regional Transport Office) rules, and conducting operations without accidents or breakdowns. From July 27 to October 15, an impressive total of 978 drivers from the Transport Corporation underwent extensive training to meet these high standards.
This strategic approach to training demonstrates PMPML’s unwavering commitment to delivering reliable and efficient bus services for the residents of Pune. It not only elevates the skills of drivers but also equips them to handle various bus types within their fleet. This readiness minimizes the risk of service disruptions during potential strikes or emergencies.
