Inconvenience for Flyers as Transport Ban at New Pune Airport Terminal Continues
Inconvenience for Flyers as Transport Ban at New Pune Airport Terminal Continues
Travellers forced to walk to Aero Mall to catch cabs and autos
Passengers arriving at Pune Airport’s new terminal are facing significant inconvenience due to a ban on cabs and auto-rickshaws entering the terminal premises. Since the new terminal began operations, only personal vehicles are allowed for pick-up and drop-off, while transport vehicles face a ₹500 fine if they enter the terminal area.
This policy has forced many travelers, who rely on cabs and auto-rickshaws, to walk to Aero Mall to find transportation. The move has sparked frustration among flyers, especially those with heavy luggage or mobility issues. The absence of easily accessible transport options is particularly challenging for elderly passengers and those with disabilities.
Ameet Singh (@ameetgsingh) voiced his frustration on X, stating, “If you catch a taxi or a rickshaw from Pune Airport Terminal ‘new,’ you pay ₹300 toll.” He further highlighted that rickshaw drivers are now assisting passengers with their baggage to avoid the toll gate, which is manned by BVG, a housekeeping company turned toll collection firm. Additionally, the public transportation bus from Ramwadi Metro to the airport is frequently missing, leaving passengers without reliable options.
The new terminal, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 10, was constructed to accommodate the growing number of air passengers in Pune. However, the ban on transport vehicles has overshadowed the benefits of the expanded facility. Many passengers, while appreciating the modern amenities of the new terminal, express dissatisfaction with the current transport arrangements, calling it a significant oversight in passenger convenience.
Santhosh Dhoke, Pune Airport Director, addressed the issue, stating, “Private cabs and auto-rickshaws are not allowed inside the new terminal building. To assist passengers, we have arranged for two electric buses and seven to eight golf carts to shuttle passengers between the terminal and Aero Mall.”
Despite these measures, the frustration among passengers continues. Many have called for a reconsideration of the transport ban to ensure smoother and more accessible travel experiences at the new terminal. The situation remains a contentious issue, with passengers hoping for a swift resolution that balances security concerns with the need for convenient transport options.
