In response to increasing demands from travelers, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has unveiled plans to resurrect its bus service connecting Pune airport to various destinations across the city. This move comes as a welcome development for both frequent fliers and local residents alike.
The PMPML had previously initiated a feeder bus service at Pune airport to provide convenient transportation between key city junctions and the airport. However, due to a lackluster response from the public, the number of buses in operation was downsized from 35 to 10. Ultimately, in November 2022, the service had to be suspended.
Recognizing the vital role of airport transportation, particularly the need for reliable feeder buses, PMPML is now striving to reestablish this crucial link. This decision was catalyzed by the numerous requests and appeals from passengers who had experienced efficient airport bus services in other cities like Bengaluru.
One such frequent flier, Ramesh Gaikwad, took to social media to express his desire for the reinstatement of the bus service. He tweeted, “Please start the buses to and from the Pune airport. Bengaluru airport has superb bus service and I hope PMPML improves the connectivity soon.”
In response to Gaikwad’s post, PMPML released a statement acknowledging the current discontinuation of the service due to inadequate public response. However, the statement also conveyed the organization’s commitment to evaluating and restarting the service if the demand for it were to rise.
Pune airport had previously been equipped with electric buses provided by PMPML. These buses were stationed at Lohegaon, with a dedicated parking space within the airport premises. The initial routes included destinations such as Kothrud, Chinchwad, Swargate, and Hadapsar – all pivotal areas within the city. The buses primarily catered to passengers during evening peak hours. Despite these well-intentioned efforts, the service failed to garner the expected traction, leading to a reduction in the number of buses and, ultimately, the suspension of the service in 2022.
The PMPML’s renewed initiative to resume the bus service to Pune airport reflects a commendable responsiveness to the needs and preferences of the public. As connectivity remains a key factor in enhancing the overall travel experience, the reintroduction of a reliable and efficient feeder bus service could significantly benefit both residents and travelers in Pune.
