CM urged to save PMPML,rope in Pardeshi as CMD

On the contrary,Satish Khot of National Society for Clean City,said the situation has deteriorated day by day. “It is shocking that though the number of buses in PMPML’s fleet is increasing,the total number of passengers is continuously declining. This indicates that there is something wrong with PMPML,” he said.

Another activist said,“The primary reason for PMPML’s failure as an efficient public transport company is the lack of competent management and technical expertise. Lack of adequate financial support from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad civic bodies is another reason. If this situation continues,it will become very difficult to save PMPML.”

First and foremost,a dynamic,competent and result-oriented administrative officer be appointed as CMD on top priority,the petition stated. “He should be given freedom of action and allowed to complete full term of three years,which should even be extended if necessary,” said Prashant Inamdar of Pedestrians First. “Secondly,three expert directors,one each from the field of transport,finance and human resources be appointed on a full-time basis. They should have necessary qualifications and experience,” said Sujit Patwardhan of Parisar.

Sudhir Jatar of Nagrik Chetana Manch and Vivek Velankar Sajag Nagrik Manch said till the time a full-time competent CMD is appointed,Pardeshi be given the additional charge.

Neeraj Jain of Lokayat and Rajendra Sidhaye of Save Pune Traffic Movement said,“The basic objective of forming PMPML was to provide a well-managed,efficient bus service for the two cities. This would be possible only when professionals with knowledge,experience and competence are inducted at various levels.”

Inamdar said,“If ill-qualified and incompetent persons continue to get appointed for the posts,this would nullify the very purpose of the formation of PMPML and dash all hopes of a better public transport for Pune. This in effect would mean a traffic disaster for the city with serious repercussions.”

MLC Mohan Joshi said he has launched a mission to save PMPML. “I had met Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and urged him to direct PMC and PCMC to provide financial assistance to PMPML,” Joshi said,adding that Pardeshi’s appointment will turn things around.

Meanwhile,the current CMD R N Joshi,who has drawn criticism from civic activists for doing little to improve PMPML’s functioning,has gone on a month’s leave. Pardeshi will officiate in his place.