Pune’s BRTS Dilemma: PMC Dismantles Routes While PMRDA Proposes New Corridors
Pune's BRTS Dilemma: PMC Dismantles Routes While PMRDA Proposes New Corridors
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is removing Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) corridors, while the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) is planning six new dedicated bus routes to improve the city’s public transport network. The conflicting approaches have sparked debate over the future of BRTS in Pune.
PMRDA’s Vision for Public Transport
Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) Managing Director Shravan Hardikar recently presented the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP), which outlines Pune’s transport development until 2050. The plan includes:
- Six new BRTS routes covering 163 km
- A 276-km metro network
- An estimated budget of ₹1.26 lakh crore
The proposed BRTS corridors will be developed on key routes, including:
- Ravet to Rajgurunagar
- Gawali Matha Chowk to Shewalewadi
- Ravet to Talegaon Dabhade
- Chandani Chowk to Hinjewadi
- Loni Kalbhor to Kedgaon
- Bhumkar Chowk to Chinchwad Chowk
PMC’s Decision to Dismantle BRTS
While PMRDA is planning an expanded BRTS network, PMC has been dismantling existing corridors. Over the past two years, it removed dedicated BRTS lanes from:
- Swargate to Hadapsar
- Yerawada to Kharadi (Ahmednagar Road)
PMC cited inefficiency and public opposition as reasons for scrapping these corridors. Officials admitted that Pune’s BRTS network, initially planned to cover 100 km, was never implemented effectively.
Public and Expert Opinions
Transport expert Harshad Abhyankar questioned the contradiction in Pune’s transport planning, stating, “While PMC is removing BRTS, another authority is proposing it. The real question is whether PMC will actually implement the new plan.”
Former Deputy Mayor Siddharth Dhende supported BRTS, stating that the system helped buses move faster and gave priority to public transport. However, a former PMC official, speaking anonymously, blamed political opposition for the failure of BRTS in Pune.
Uncertain Future for BRTS in Pune
With PMC dismantling existing corridors and PMRDA proposing new routes, the future of BRTS in Pune remains uncertain. While experts emphasize the importance of an efficient public transport system, the city’s mixed approach raises concerns about the practicality and execution of large-scale BRTS projects
