Pune: Deepa Mudhol-Munde has officially assumed the role of Chairperson and Managing Director of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML).

After taking charge, she held a meeting on Monday (July 15) at the Swargate administrative office with all department heads to review the operations of the transport corporation.

Previously, there was much speculation after Ashish Yeraker declined the position of PMPML chairperson. Consequently, on July 8, the state government appointed Deepa Mudhol-Munde to the post, transferring her from her role as District Collector of Beed.

Questions arose about whether she would accept the position or follow Yeraker’s example and decline. Her acceptance has finally put an end to these uncertainties.

Over the past 17 years, PMPML has seen 22 chairpersons. The merger of Pune Municipal Transport (PMT) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Transport (PCMT) in 2007 formed PMPML as a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) company.

The chairperson and managing director of PMPML is typically an IAS officer. The board of directors includes the mayors of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the chairpersons of the standing committees of both municipalities, the commissioners, and the regional transport officer.

PMPML has faced significant challenges, including inadequate bus numbers, poor planning, and financial losses amounting to ₹800 crores.

The current fleet of PMPML consists of about 1,928 buses, whereas the requirement, considering the combined population of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad of over 7 million, is 3,638 buses. This shortfall of 1,710 buses, combined with poor execution and planning, has exacerbated PMPML's difficulties, affecting the daily commute of residents.

Deepa Mudhol-Munde’s appointment brings hope for better management and resolution of these long-standing issues, aiming to improve the lifeline of Pune’s public transport system.