Pune: The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is set to roll out an additional 91 buses this Raksha Bandhan, bringing the total number of buses on the roads to 1,852.

This decision comes as the PMPML administration anticipates a significant increase in passenger numbers during the festival.

Compared to last year, the total number of buses has decreased by 59, as the PMPML fleet has been reduced. Last year, 1,911 buses were in service on Raksha Bandhan, generating revenue of ₹1.95 crore.

This year, the PMP has made efforts to maximize its fleet to meet the expected demand, even with a slightly smaller number of vehicles.

Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated on August 19, and the PMP administration has taken steps to ensure smooth operations across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the PMRDA regions.

To manage the anticipated passenger surge, the PMPML has also canceled the weekly leaves of drivers, conductors, and supervisory staff. Officers will be stationed at major bus stations to oversee operations and ensure that the service runs efficiently.

In addition to regular services, the PMP has identified around 250 locations with high passenger footfall, where senior officials, depot managers, and other staff will be deployed to manage the crowd. This initiative aims to reduce trip cancellations and improve service efficiency during the festive period.

Depot managers and divisional officers will be stationed at key depots, including Katraj, Upper Depot, Market Yard, Pune Municipal Corporation Bhavan, Kothrud Depot, Warje-Malwadi, Pune Station, Wagholi, Hadapsar, Bhekrainagar, Shewalewadi, Saswad, Chinchwad, Nigdi, Alandi, Bhosari, Talegaon, Rajgurunagar, and Dehugaon.

Their presence is intended to ensure that the additional buses are utilized effectively and that any operational challenges are promptly addressed.

PMPML Chief Transport Manager, Satish Ghawane, stated that the administration is committed to providing the best possible service during the Raksha Bandhan period. The additional manpower and buses aim to cater to the increased demand and minimize any disruptions in service.