Pune: In a bid to reduce operational costs and improve bus availability for passengers, PMPML has initiated the construction of CNG stations at its Swargate and Nigdi depots.

The installation of pipelines on roads leading to the depots has already begun, with Mahanagar Natural Gas Limited (MNGL) set to supply CNG after receiving clearance from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).

Once operational, these stations are expected to save nearly 20,000 kilometers of daily dead mileage for PMPML's fleet, amounting to savings of approximately ₹1 lakh per day.

The move will also ensure that buses are available to passengers on time, enhancing overall service efficiency.

Improving Cost Efficiency

Currently, buses from Swargate and Nigdi depots need to travel several kilometers to refuel at other depots, leading to increased fuel consumption and delays in bus services.

With the new CNG stations, around 200 buses will no longer require these additional trips, significantly reducing fuel expenses and operational inefficiencies.

Future Expansion Plans

PMPML currently operates CNG stations at five of its 15 depots. While construction is underway at Swargate and Nigdi depots, PMPML has expressed a positive outlook towards extending this initiative to other depots in the near future.

Price of CNG in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and nearby regions was hiked by 90 paise per kilogram in September 2024. Consumers are paying out ₹85.90 per kg.

MNGL, the company responsible for CNG distribution in these areas, attributed this price hike to rising international crude natural gas prices and increased import costs.