Pune: Passengers Complain About Lack of Cleanliness in E-Buses; Questions Raised on PMPML’s Response

Pune, 28th September 2024: The introduction of e-buses by Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) initially received a positive response from passengers, largely due to the air-conditioned comfort of the journey. However, in recent days, passengers have been increasingly complaining about the lack of cleanliness in these e-buses. Many have questioned whether PMPML is neglecting their requests for cleaner buses.

PMPML operates 500 e-buses, all managed by contractors, primarily serving passengers on long-distance routes. These buses transport over one crore passengers per month and approximately 3.5 lakh passengers daily. Despite their popularity, complaints about inadequate cleaning have surged in the past few days.

Earlier, in response to passenger grievances, the PMPML administration issued directives to ensure the buses were properly cleaned before being dispatched. While these instructions were followed for a brief period, the cleanliness issues have resurfaced.

Currently, passengers report unclean conditions, with dust, broken handles, and damaged seats being common problems. When the air conditioning starts, dust often blows through the bus, further disturbing the commuters. The rainy season has exacerbated these issues, with buses becoming dirtier.

Passengers are now hoping that PMPML takes immediate action to address these cleanliness concerns. Despite contractors being paid regularly under their agreements, questions are mounting as to why PMPML officials seem to be ignoring passenger complaints.