Pune, 9th September 2025: Pune is set to introduce a new double-decker bus from Chennai after approval from the mobility company ‘Switch.’ The bus will undergo trial runs in major areas such as Magarpatta, Hinjewadi, and Kharadi for one week. If the trials are successful, the PMPML administration will officially start double-decker bus services in the city, particularly in IT Park regions.
Following the example of Mumbai’s BEST service, the PMPML administration has been actively planning to bring double-decker buses to Pune. Officials from Switch Mobility recently met with PMPML representatives to discuss operations, and the company has agreed to provide buses for the city.
The new double-decker bus is electric and air-conditioned, offering modern amenities like digital ticketing and enhanced suspension for a smoother ride. It features a London-style look and can carry up to 70 seated passengers and 40 standing passengers. With a height of 14 feet 4 inches, the bus will not interfere with metro stations.
This bus is expected to be more cost-effective than the older SLF double-decker buses previously used in Pune, which had high maintenance expenses. The new electric buses will reduce upkeep costs while providing a comfortable experience for passengers.
Once the bus arrives in Pune, trial runs will test its performance and passenger service across different city routes. “We will check for any issues during these trials, and if everything goes smoothly, double-decker buses will soon operate in PMPML’s fleet,” said Pankaj Devre, Chairman and Managing Director of PMPML, Pune.
