In a significant move aimed at enhancing accessibility and affordability for students, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced the provision of 100% subsidized bus passes for students in the upcoming academic year 2024/25. This initiative, facilitated by the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd. (PMPML), underscores the commitment to promoting inclusive transportation solutions and facilitating seamless mobility for students across Pune.
Benefits and Eligibility Criteria: Students ranging from 5th to 12th grade attending PMC schools will be entitled to full exemptions on their bus passes, ensuring cost-free commuting for educational purposes. Additionally, students enrolled in private schools under PMC jurisdiction will receive a substantial 75% discount on bus passes, significantly easing the financial burden on students and their families.
Role of PMPML in Pune’s Transportation Network: PMPML plays a pivotal role in Pune’s transportation ecosystem, catering to diverse demographics including students, employees, senior citizens, and other commuters traversing Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and surrounding areas. By extending subsidized bus passes to students, PMPML underscores its commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable mobility solutions for the community.
Streamlined Application Process for PMC Schools: Commencing from June 12th, PMC schools will initiate the application process by submitting forms to PMPML. These forms, detailing the school name, can be submitted at all bus depots and pass centers across the city. To streamline the process further, PMC schools or their representatives have the option to collect forms from students and submit them collectively to PMPML, eliminating the need for individual visits to bus depots.
Procedure for Students of Private Schools: Students enrolled in private schools under PMC jurisdiction will undergo a verification process for document and form submission. Upon successful verification, students will receive challans from PMPML, which must be presented at Bank of Maharashtra branches within PMC jurisdiction. Subsequently, students can obtain their subsidized passes from nearby bus depots, facilitating convenient access to affordable transportation services.
Encouraging Student Participation: Emphasizing the affordability and accessibility of student passes, PMPML encourages all eligible students to actively participate in this initiative. With passes priced at Rs. 750 for a monthly pass, Rs. 2,000 for a quarterly pass, Rs. 3,000 for a six-month pass, and Rs. 5,000 for a yearly pass across all routes, the initiative promises significant cost savings for students, fostering greater independence and mobility.
