Pune, 7th January 2026: Lakhs of passengers from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, along with surrounding rural areas rely on PMPML buses for daily commuting.
But, a recent increase in accidents involving buses operated on a contract basis has raised serious concerns about commuter safety and the organisation’s public image. In response, PMPML has introduced a new and stricter safety framework for all its drivers.
The PMPML administration has directed drivers to follow enhanced safety precautions at every level of operation. Passenger safety will now be treated as the highest priority, and drivers are expected to strictly adhere to traffic rules, speed limits, and lane discipline, especially in crowded areas such as bus stops, markets, signals, and pedestrian crossings.
The transport body has clearly stated that negligent drivers who put passengers’ lives at risk will not be protected. Any driver found violating traffic rules while operating a PMPML bus will face strict disciplinary action. These instructions apply equally to permanent PMPML drivers and those employed through private contractors.
Speaking on the issue, PMPML Chairman and Managing Director Pankaj Deore said that the number of accidents has increased in recent months, making it necessary to enforce discipline among contract bus drivers. He added that depot managers have been instructed to conduct weekly awareness and safety sessions for drivers.
If a driver is found driving rashly, strict action will be taken not only against the driver but also against the concerned contractor.
As part of the new measures, PMPML has also reviewed operational issues. Data from December shows that 459 PMPML buses and 907 contract buses went off the road due to breakdowns, highlighting the need for better monitoring, maintenance, and accountability.