PMPML: Stop where PMP is not needed; The bus stopped, but where did the stop go?

Pune: The bus stops built with joint efforts from Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd. (PMPML) and the Municipal Corporation, made of stainless steel, have today fallen into disrepair. Where there is a need for bus stops, there is a shortage, and where there is no need, bus stops are left unused and gathering dust. This has led to widespread dissatisfaction among citizens.

There are over 4,000 bus stops across the city, with an average expenditure of ₹7 to ₹10 lakhs for each stop. However, due to poor management and underutilization, these stops are failing to serve their purpose, leading to frustration among commuters. In many places, bus stops are just skeletal structures with no seating or shelters. Despite the intended purpose of these bus stops to assist commuters, many of them have been neglected.

While there is no proper facility for commuters in some areas, many bus stops across the city are left unused and deteriorating. Some bus stops are not even recognized, leaving passengers confused about where the bus will stop. As a result, commuters are forced to stand in open spaces without adequate shelter, especially in areas like major roads, school and college neighborhoods, industrial zones, and markets where bus stops are urgently needed. There is a growing demand from passengers for proper maintenance and installation of bus stops at the right locations.

Where Are the Bus Stops?

• Mitrmandal Colony, Parvati Darshan: There is no bus stop, and commuters have no seating or shelter. Bus numbers are scribbled on paper and stuck on electric boxes. It’s unclear if there’s even a bus stop here.
• Sahakar Nagar: No PMPML bus stop is present. A small, unclear yellow board behind a tree marks the spot, and passengers are left waiting for hours on the road.
• Many bus stops have just metal frames left, with no signs of maintenance or repairs. Passengers are left to wait at these incomplete stops with no shelter, seating, or clear signage.

Daily Situation

• Number of buses on the roads: 1,570 (approximately).
• Average daily passengers: 1 million.
• Total bus stops: Over 4,000.

The Reality

PMPML has spent an average of ₹7 to ₹10 lakhs on each bus stop. These funds came from various sources, including local councillors, MPs, and MLAs, or the PMC’s infrastructure development fund. However, while some bus stops proudly display the names of politicians, they often lack basic facilities like bus schedules, proper seating, or shelter. In some places, only the metal frame remains, and no effort has been made by either PMPML or the Municipal Corporation to repair them. As a result, passengers face daily inconvenience.

Passenger Problems

There is a severe shortage of bus stops in key areas. Main roads, school and college areas, industrial zones, and market areas urgently need bus stops, but many of them either don’t exist or are in a dilapidated state. This leaves passengers with no choice but to wait for buses on the road, often exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Quotes from Passengers:

• “What’s the use of installing bus stops in places where buses don’t stop? This service is needed where it’s most needed. The administration should take this seriously. We face daily inconveniences because bus stops are not set up based on the actual needs of the passengers.”
  — Dipti Salunkhe, Commuter
• “Stop spending on inactive bus stops and instead create proper facilities in locations where passengers need them. Bus stops should be planned based on passenger count and needs. Regular repairs and maintenance of existing stops are crucial.”
  — Prashant Kamble, Commuter