Pune: 50 Feeder Buses Deployed To Enhance Last-Mile Connectivity For Metro Commuters Amid Parking Constraints

In a move aimed at enhancing last-mile connectivity for Pune Metro passengers, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has so far deployed 50 feeder buses, reported The Free Press Journal.

Speaking to The Free Press Journal, Hemant Sonawane, Executive Director (Administration and Public Relations), Pune Metro, stressed the importance of expanding the feeder bus fleet.

“There is a need to increase the number of buses. Our current focus is on last-mile connectivity. It is not possible to provide parking space for every passenger, which creates the need for feeder buses that can help passengers travel conveniently,” he said.

At present, eight Metro stations—PCMC, Sant Tukaram Nagar, Phugewadi, Bopodi, Shivajinagar, Civil Court, Swargate, Ideal Colony, and Mangalwar Peth have been equipped with parking facilities at affordable rates. However, these remain non-operational due to limited space and ongoing logistical issues.

“Since there is no designated parking space at all metro stations, vehicles are often seen parked haphazardly. However, it is the responsibility of the police to take action against such violations,” Sonawane added.

On Monday, NCP (SP) Working President Supriya Sule voiced her concern over the inadequacy of PMPML’s resources.

“If the government can spend huge amounts on Metro rail service then it can easily buy 5,000 buses for PMPML. It is important to ensure maximum people use the Metro rail service,” she said.

She also emphasised the urgent need for policy intervention, “The union and state government should come up with a comprehensive policy to provide last-mile connectivity to commuters.”

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