Congress Holds State Government Responsible for Pune’s Traffic Chaos

Pune: The Indian National Congress (INC) party has blamed the government for the chaos in Pune’s transportation system, particularly criticizing the frequent transfers of the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) managers, which they argue shows the government’s lack of seriousness about public services.

Mohan Joshi, the Vice President of the Pradesh Congress Committee and former MLA, has addressed these concerns in a direct letter to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

In his letter, Joshi points out that no managing director of PMPML is allowed to complete their term. He argues that the government does not seem interested in ensuring the efficient operation of the city’s only public transportation service.

A capable and strong managing director, if given a full term, could make significant improvements, but the government's indecisiveness regarding this position hinders any substantial progress.

Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar announced a year ago that the PMPML fleet would be expanded by 2,000 buses. However, no action has been taken in this regard.

Passengers often wait for hours on various bus routes due to a lack of buses, and bus shelters are insufficient. Joshi emphasizes that the city’s growing population requires a restructured bus route system, which necessitates a competent chief officer in place for an extended period.

Instead, the Mahayuti government’s irresponsible actions are exacerbating PMPML’s operational issues, he alleges.

Joshi’s letter demands that the person appointed to the company’s key positions should not be changed for at least three years to ensure continuity and effective management.