Pune, India – In a bid to enhance the bus travel experience for commuters, Pune-based NGO Parisar is set to launch the #AppKaraBusKara campaign. The initiative aims to familiarize citizens with the potential benefits of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) app, which, despite promises, is yet to see the light of day.
Tanzeel Allapur, Project Associate at Parisar, expressed concern over the prolonged delay in the release of the PMPML app. “The PMPML has promised a bus app for a very long time now. But it hasn’t happened so far. Even last year, when we engaged with the PMPML, they mentioned that the app will get launched soon. It hasn’t happened,” Allapur noted.
Under the #AppKaraBusKara campaign, Parisar plans to install interactive screens at five prominent bus depots in Pune, including PMC, Swargate, Deccan, Kondhwa, Kothrud, and Bibwewadi. These screens will showcase various destinations, allowing commuters to explore the potential of the app by selecting their desired location. The screens will display information such as available buses, travel duration, and fares.
“We are not going to launch an entire app, but we are planning to install screens at some Pune bus depots on which there will be a few destinations shown. People can click whichever destination they want to go, and the results will show the buses they can take, how much time will it take, fares, etc.,” explained Allapur. The aim is to create awareness and garner support for the demand for a comprehensive bus app.
Allapur emphasized the importance of robust public transportation in addressing the challenges posed by increasing congestion and pollution. “There is a lot of information gap when it comes to bus transportation, especially in Pune. So, not only do we want the bus app to be launched, but also way-finding signages in the city,” said Allapur. The NGO envisions a system where even those without the app can navigate through the bus system seamlessly.
The prototype screens are set to be installed at the identified bus depots in March, with the exact date to be announced soon. Parisar is optimistic about receiving a substantial response from Pune citizens, urging them to actively participate in the #AppKaraBusKara campaign to bring about positive changes in the city’s public transportation system.
