Pune’s public transport provider PMPML is expected to receive only 600 to 700 new buses by the end of April, far below the 2,500 buses that were recently spoken about publicly. Officials clarified that while a larger number of buses are planned over time, immediate deliveries will be limited due to tender timelines, manufacturing schedules and infrastructure readiness. Of the expected additions, around 160 electric buses may arrive by February or March, while nearly 600 CNG buses manufactured by Ashok Leyland are likely to be inducted by late April or May.
Currently, PMPML operates a fleet of 1,988 buses, with only 701 owned directly by the transport body and the rest supplied through contractors. Activists and daily commuters pointed out that contract buses account for most breakdowns, affecting service reliability. Experts also flagged depot capacity and maintenance readiness as major constraints. While fleet expansion will provide some relief, officials and civic groups agree that claims of a rapid jump to 4,000 buses remain unrealistic in the short term.