Tejas Navale

Pune: Many bus stops across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad cities are devoid of shelters, leaving commuters exposed to the elements. While efforts have been made to install shelters using funds from public representatives, or MLAs, progress has been hindered by budget constraints, leaving the PMPML administration reliant on MLA funds to proceed with the construction.

Public transport services provided by Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) have garnered positive responses from commuters, with the quality facilities attracting a significant number of passengers over the past two decades. PMPML buses have become essential for residents, particularly the working class and middle class, comprising students, workers, and employees.

Despite the high demand for PMPML bus services, the lack of shelters at bus stops poses a challenge for commuters, who are forced to endure adverse weather conditions while waiting for buses. The administration has taken steps to address this issue by inviting tenders for the construction of bus stop shelters, but so far, no responses have been received.

Dattatreya Zende, Principal Transport Manager at PMPML, acknowledged the issue and assured commuters that efforts are underway to address the lack of shelters. He stated, "We have received information that there are no sheds at many bus stops in the city. We will work on bus stop sheds as per the need. There is a plan to set up a shed on a build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis. We are waiting for funds to be available for that."

The absence of shelters not only inconveniences commuters but also affects their safety and well-being, especially during inclement weather conditions. Commuters, particularly those belonging to the working and middle class, rely heavily on public transport services, and having adequate infrastructure such as bus stop shelters is essential for their comfort and convenience.