PMPML contractors under scrutiny due to high accident rates

Pune: There is a worrying increase in bus accidents at Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML), resulting in numerous deaths and injuries.

From January to June this year, 34 accidents were reported, resulting in 11 deaths and several serious injuries. A significant number of these incidents involved buses operated by contractors.

PMPML provides bus services across Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad and surrounding rural areas, providing convenient transportation to the passengers on various routes. However, these buses are often involved in minor and major accidents. According to the administration, narrow roads, traffic congestion, roadside parking and violation of traffic rules contribute to these incidents.

In addition, lack of experience in navigating crowded areas, loss of control of the vehicle and non-observance of traffic rules by PMPML bus drivers are cited as contributing factors. Sudden stopping of other vehicles in front of the bus and unexpected entry of private vehicles into Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes further confuse bus drivers and often lead to accidents.

Accidents often result in significant delays for passengers as buses are stopped and crowds gather. Police and PMPML officials intervene to resolve the situation, but this results in longer waiting times for passengers.

Higher accident rate for buses operated by construction companies

The accident rate is higher in buses operated by contractors. In the last six months, PMPML buses were involved in 9 out of 34 accidents, while contractor buses were responsible for 25 accidents. This has led to demands for better training of contract bus drivers.

Deaths and injuries

In the last six months, 34 accidents resulted in 11 deaths, 13 serious injuries and 10 minor injuries. Satish Ghate, public relations officer of PMPML, said: “The drivers are given regular training on safe driving and passenger care. The focus is also on maintenance and repair of the buses.”

Monthly accident breakdown

• January: 10 accidents

• February: 3 accidents

• March: 4 accidents

• April: 7 accidents

• May: 7 accidents

• June: 3 accidents

• Total: 34 accidents