Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) officials recently conducted a trial run of an electric bus (e-bus) on the route to Sinhagad fort. However, the commencement of the e-bus service to the fort is facing delays due to the unavailability of necessary facilities.
The Forest Department had previously imposed a ban on private vehicles entering the Sinhagad fort premises, prompting the introduction of the e-bus service from the foothills. Charging stations were established, and a designated parking area was created at Donje to facilitate the service. Commuters welcomed the e-bus service as an eco-friendly transportation option. However, the service was subsequently suspended by PMPML due to challenges including narrow roads, landslides, inadequate charging stations, and accidents.
One of the major requirements for the resumption of the e-bus service is to make necessary modifications in the ghat section to facilitate smooth turns for the buses. However, these changes have not yet been implemented, resulting in the service being put on hold. PMPML officials have emphasized that the bus service will resume once the required modifications are carried out to ensure the safety and convenience of passengers.
While the trial run of the e-bus on the Sinhagad fort route is a positive step towards providing sustainable transportation options, the lack of essential facilities and infrastructure improvements has hindered its full implementation. PMPML and the concerned authorities are working towards addressing these challenges and providing a reliable and efficient e-bus service to the iconic Sinhagad fort in the near future.
