Punekars Left Without Shelters In Scorching Heat, PMPML Says Delays In Bus Shelter Installation Due To Local Opposition | FPJ Photo
Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has alleged that local residents and shop owners are opposing the setup of new shelters, leading to delays in the establishment of the new bus shelters in Pune.
The failure of PMPML authorities in setting up the new bus shelters in deadline have left commuters to face the scorching heat of the summer. Out of 9,000 bus stops across Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) areas, only 1,075 of the stops have shelters.
Meanwhile, authorities alleged that local residents and shop owners are not cooperating and are opposing the installation of the new shelters because they think the structure could block the way for their customers, leading to delays in setting up the new bus shelters.
However, last year, PMPML had assured that the installation of 300 stainless steel shelters would be completed by March 2025. But only 100 of them have been set up so far.
In the summer season, this is a very big issue for passengers who specifically rely on public transport. The reason given by the officials is not valid.
“What do they do with the money generated from tickets? Only 1,000 bus stops have shelters out of 9,000, which is very little. The buses do not arrive on time,” said daily commuter Suresh Shinde.
Another commuter, Deep Sah, said the officials should properly communicate the issue to the state government. “Whatever the problem they are facing, it doesn’t sound like the authorities are claiming the right thing. The work is delayed due to opposition from local residents. New shelters are an urgent requirement for commuters,” he added.
Here’s what PMPML says
Nitin Narvekar, Joint MD of PMPML, speaking to the Free Press Journal, said, “The tender to set up these shelters has been passed and is under process. Soon, they will be installed. Out of 300 new shelters, 100 have been set up; however, 200 are pending.”
Additionally, another tender for 400 new shelters has been passed. In return for advertisement, the contract has been signed, and soon, the installation work will begin.
There are many challenges with the locals and finances. However, all problems will be sorted soon, and the work will be completed in a faster mode.
