Pune, 23 August 2025: Pune’s public transport faced disruption on Friday after nearly 80 contract drivers of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) went on strike, demanding better pay. The protest began at the Annabhau Sathe Bus Terminal in Nigdi’s Bhakti Shakti Chowk, where most of the drivers are stationed.
The drivers are employed by Travel Time, a private company contracted to operate a part of PMPML’s electric bus fleet. They currently receive ₹650 per day for an eight-hour duty but claim their shifts often stretch to nine or ten hours without overtime. The drivers have demanded an increase to at least ₹1,000 per day, or a monthly salary of ₹30,000, citing rising living costs in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
One of the protesting drivers explained that they were promised an increment, but the revised pay offered by the contractor fell short of expectations. He said that many drivers are unable to manage their household expenses with the existing pay.
Another driver said that despite repeated requests, their demands have not been met and that other contractors’ drivers already earn higher daily wages.
The strike left commuters struggling, especially those who prefer the electric buses for their comfort, cleanliness, and air conditioning. Several passengers at Nigdi depot reported delays and fewer buses on key routes, including those connecting Dehu, Nigdi, and Pune city.
PMPML spokesperson Kishore Chavan admitted that services were hit, with about 40 vehicles short from the Nigdi depot’s fleet of 190 electric buses. However, he said that the administration had managed to keep around 150 buses running by rearranging schedules and using other contract drivers.
He clarified that the dispute is between the contractor and its drivers, and PMPML is only ensuring that bus services continue with minimal disruption.