Centre Approves 1,000 E-Buses for Pune under PM E-DRIVE

The Centre has sanctioned the acquisition of 1,000 electric buses for Pune as part of the PM E-DRIVE initiative, significantly enhancing the city's public transport system, stated Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol.

 The introduction of these new electric buses is anticipated to strengthen the fleet of Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML), alleviate traffic congestion, and assist in reducing vehicular pollution, as mentioned by the BJP MP from Pune in a statement on Tuesday.

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The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) initiative focuses on delivering cost-effective and eco-friendly public transportation solutions for the general populace.

Mohol indicated that Union Minister for Heavy Industries H D Kumaraswamy has provided the final endorsement for the proposal put forth by PMPML, which manages bus services in the city, Pimpri Chinchwad, and surrounding regions under the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority.

Currently, PMPML operates approximately 2,000 buses, with nearly 750 being owned by the organization and the remainder managed through contractors. Given the rapid expansion of the city, officials assert that the organization needs a fleet of at least 3,000 buses to satisfy commuter requirements.

 Mohol noted that he has been actively engaging with both state and central authorities regarding the procurement of new buses. Discussions with Kumaraswamy and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were instrumental in obtaining the necessary approval, he remarked.