After successful trials of the double-decker buses in Pune, the buses may soon hit the roads, said officials from the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML).
“Switch-manufactured electric and air-conditioned buses performed well during the trials. The initial ticket price of Rs 100, which was charged during the trial phase, will be reduced once regular operations begin. Some minor issues, such as obstruction caused by tree branches, were encountered and will be addressed by highlighting them to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA),” explained Satish Gavhane, Chief Transport Manager of PMPML, in an interview with the Indian Express.
Residents have welcomed the trials and the potential introduction of the double-decker bus service. With a seating capacity of 65 and additional standing space for 20 passengers, these buses are expected to significantly boost public transport capacity in the city.
The trial routes covered key areas including Ramwadi Metro Station to International Tech Park (Kharadi), Magarpatta to Kalyani Nagar, Pune Station to Pune Airport, Chinchwad to Hinjewadi, Dehu to Alandi, and a circular route around Hinjewadi.
However, despite the promising features, the buses were often seen empty during trials due to the high fare of Rs 100. Many passengers were reluctant to pay this amount for a short, 4-kilometre ride through central Pune.
Ramesh Jadhav, a college student, shared his thoughts: “I was curious to sit on the upper deck and experience the ride. But Rs 100 for just a few minutes on the bus is too much. Authorities need to think twice before applying such high fares.”
Double-decker buses, which were discontinued in Pune in 1995, are now poised for a comeback, offering a modern and comfortable option for city commuters. With fare adjustments and infrastructure improvements, PMPML aims to make these buses a popular choice among Pune residents.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/pune-double-decker-bus-trials-successful-operations-to-start-soon