Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed an allocation of ₹30.80 crore to Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) to cover its growing operational deficit. The proposal has been submitted for approval to the Standing Committee, and once sanctioned, it is expected to provide some financial relief to the struggling public transport service.
PMPML, which provides bus services across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) areas, has been facing significant financial losses over the past few years. Despite having a large fleet, including buses operated by private contractors, the organization continues to struggle with revenue generation.
According to PMPML’s 2023-24 financial report, the company’s operational deficit has reached ₹706 crore. As a joint venture between PMC and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), the two municipal bodies share the financial burden in a 60:40 ratio, with PMC responsible for covering ₹423 crore of the total loss.
Breakdown of PMC’s Financial Support
PMC has already disbursed ₹392.49 crore to PMPML, including advance payments and monthly contributions. From the remaining ₹31.31 crore, an adjustment of ₹49.46 lakh will be made towards outstanding dues of the municipal printing department, and the final ₹30.80 crore will be allocated to PMPML to address its financial shortfall. The municipal administration has formally submitted the proposal to the Standing Committee for approval. If cleared, this funding is expected to ease PMPML’s financial constraints to some extent.
Subsidized Passes for Students and Citizens
In addition to operational funding, PMC has also allocated ₹23.57 crore to PMPML for subsidized travel passes. These passes benefit students from municipal schools, municipal employees, senior citizens, and freedom fighters, ensuring continued access to affordable public transportation.