Pune, 14th October 2025: Pune’s public transport network is all set for a major transformation as 1,000 new electric buses will soon join the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) fleet under the Central Government’s ‘Pradhan Mantri e-Drive’ scheme.
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Muralidhar Mohol announced that a proposal for the purchase of these buses has already been submitted to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries, following directions from the Maharashtra state government.
“We have met Union Heavy Industries Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy and discussed the matter in detail. He has responded positively,” Mohol shared in a press release issued on Monday.
Meeting Pune’s Growing Transport Demand
With Pune’s rapid urbanization and increasing population, the city’s transport system is under significant pressure. Traffic congestion and rising pollution have become major concerns for citizens.
Currently, PMPML operates around 2,000 buses, but according to Mohol, the city needs nearly 4,000 buses to efficiently serve daily commuters and support the expanding Pune Metro network.
After a meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a detailed proposal was sent to the RBI for financial support. The bank has reportedly agreed to provide financial assistance and guarantee for the purchase. The final proposal has now been forwarded to the Union Government for approval.
Step Toward Green and Sustainable Transport
The addition of these 1,000 electric buses aligns with the government’s vision to promote eco-friendly and sustainable urban mobility. Mohol emphasized that while Pune continues to expand its metro lines, strengthening PMPML remains equally vital for improving overall transport efficiency.
“These initiatives by the state government will give a major boost to Pune’s public transport infrastructure,” he said.
Once approved, the new e-buses will help reduce the city’s carbon footprint, improve last-mile connectivity, and offer cleaner and more comfortable travel for daily commuters.
What This Means for Pune
- ✅ Cleaner Environment: Reduction in air pollution and fuel emissions.
- ✅ Better Connectivity: Enhanced coordination between PMPML and Pune Metro.
- ✅ Ease of Commute: More buses will mean reduced waiting times for passengers.
- ✅ Government Support: Backed by the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries and RBI.
The Pradhan Mantri e-Drive Scheme aims to modernize public transport across major Indian cities. Pune’s inclusion in this initiative marks a significant step toward achieving the city’s goal of becoming a smart, green, and commuter-friendly urban hub.
