The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) reportedly planned to bring at least 25 e-buses by January 26 and another 125 by March next year, but both the PMPML and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) are unsure about the project.
A senior PMPML official speaking to TOI said that at present both civic bodies have no budgetary provisions. He said “The PCMC has set aside funds for CNG buses. However, both civic bodies are being careful about e-buses as the concept is new. The goal is to have at least 25 e-buses on Pune streets by Republic Day.”
“The PMC is trying to engage the Pune Smart City Development Corporation Limited for the e-bus project. If the corporation gets the buses, the infrastructure such as charging stations is needed. Until now, both corporations have not shown interest towards getting the e-buses. The Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT) is looking after the plan and both civic bodies have met them,” the official further added.
Another official with the knowledge said the publication “There were talks that the buses could see acquisition as per the gross cost capital model but then it is for both the civic bodies to decide. If we are looking at January 26, we have to be ready with a proper plan and acquire these buses within a couple of months.”