Hinjewadi Double Decker Bus – New Travel Plan for Pune’s IT Employees
Traffic in Pune’s IT hubs like Hinjewadi, Kharadi, Magarpatta, and Hadapsar has become a serious problem. Long travel hours, packed roads, and limited public transport have made daily commuting tough for IT employees. Some companies have even hinted at shifting offices if the situation doesn’t improve.
To solve this, Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has announced a new plan – the launch of modern electric double-decker buses for IT routes. The service will start with a trial run in Hinjewadi and later expand to other areas.
Why Double-Decker Buses for Hinjewadi?
- IT corridors in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad face heavy rush during peak hours.
- Public transport is not enough, leading to dependence on private vehicles.
- IT firms have raised strong concerns about transport issues.
- Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar instructed PMPML to take quick action.
In response, PMPML decided to reintroduce double-decker buses – this time with eco-friendly electric models.
Features of Hinjewadi Double Decker Buses
These new buses are designed for comfort and city use:
- ✅ Fully electric – zero pollution
- ✅ Air-conditioned cabins
- ✅ Capacity for 70 seated + 40 standing passengers
- ✅ Digital ticketing system
- ✅ Smooth suspension for comfortable rides
- ✅ Height: 14 ft 4 in, safe for flyovers and metro routes
- ✅ London-style red design for modern look
Each bus costs around ₹2 crore, but running and maintenance will be cheaper compared to old diesel SLF buses.
Proposed Route Plan
The focus will be on major IT hubs and crowded roads. Likely routes include:
| Area | Importance |
|---|---|
| Hinjawadi Phase 1, 2, 3 | Core IT offices, heavy congestion |
| Kharadi (EON IT Park area) | Major IT hub |
| Magarpatta | Residential + IT offices |
| Hadapsar | Connects to Kharadi & Magarpatta, daily traffic jams |
After the trial, PMPML will add more routes depending on demand and passenger feedback.
Launch Date & Trial Details
- A trial phase will begin within the next week.
- A team from Switch Mobility (Ashok Leyland’s EV arm) will inspect Pune roads, bus stops, and infrastructure.
- They will check:
- Road width and height clearance
- Turning radius and U-turn feasibility
- Bus stop locations
- Passenger entry/exit convenience
- Metro and PMPML integration
If successful, PMPML will introduce more buses in phases.
Expected Benefits
- Reduced private vehicles on roads during office hours
- Shorter travel times for IT professionals
- Comfortable, air-conditioned, eco-friendly travel
- More people shifting to public transport
- Long-term smart mobility solutions for Pune
Old Idea, New Execution
PMPML had thought of double-decker buses nearly five years ago, but budget and approval issues delayed the plan. Now, under Chairman & MD Pankaj Deore and Joint MD Nitin Narvekar, the project has been revived.
Both officials recently visited Mumbai to study Switch Mobility’s buses before finalizing Pune’s plan.
Final Word
The Hinjewadi Double Decker Bus trial is expected to roll out very soon. If successful, it will transform public transport in Pune’s IT hubs, making daily travel faster, greener, and more comfortable.
