Pune: Controversy Erupts Over PMPML Bus Purchase, Jagtap To Move High Court
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Pune, April 30, 2026: A controversy has emerged over a proposed bus procurement by the PMPML, with Wanowrie corporator and former Mayor of Pune Prashant Jagtap raising serious objections and indicating that he may approach the Bombay High Court against the decision.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Pune Municipal Corporation, where a proposal related to PMPML’s financial deficit was presented by committee chairman Shrinath Bhimale. During the meeting, Jagtap opposed the bus purchase approved by the PMPML board.
Drawing on his experience as former chairman of PMPML, Jagtap questioned the decision to procure buses designed for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridors, which feature doors on both sides. He pointed out that there is currently no active policy or expansion plan for BRT routes in the city.
He further highlighted that standard buses are approximately ₹6 lakh cheaper and offer higher seating capacity compared to the proposed BRT buses. Despite this, the decision to procure more expensive buses with lower capacity has raised concerns about financial prudence.
Jagtap has demanded clarity on why such buses are being purchased despite the lack of operational BRT routes. He stated that once the official minutes of the PMPML board meeting are released within the next two days, he will move the High Court to challenge the procurement process.
The development has sparked debate over transparency and decision-making in public transport planning in Pune.
