Pune, 18th August 2023: The introduction of electric buses by the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) was aimed at offering a greener and more efficient mode of public transport. However, these e-buses are now causing a significant inconvenience to commuters, with many failing to complete their journeys due to drained batteries. According to official reports, approximately 10 to 12 e-buses are unable to finish their trips each day due to this issue.
Officials have attributed this problem to the heavy traffic congestion experienced on the city’s roads. They claim that the stop-and-go traffic pattern in urban areas consumes more battery power, causing the buses’ batteries to drain before they reach their intended distance or duration. Unfortunately, this situation leaves commuters in the lurch, as they either have to find alternative transportation or wait for another bus to continue their journey.
In response to this challenge, the PMPML has instructed the contractors operating the e-buses to reserve around 10% of the buses at the depot. This measure aims to keep these buses fully charged and ready for service, ensuring they don’t operate with insufficient battery levels. The officials have highlighted that the shortage of buses often compels drivers to operate with partially charged batteries, contributing to the recurring problem. On a full charge, an e-bus can cover a distance of approximately 220 to 225 kilometers and requires at least an hour for a complete charge. As of now, PMPML operates 458 e-buses from a total of 15 depots across the city.
