PMPML Identifies 150 Low-Performing Buses Using Data Analytics

Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) has launched an initiative to improve revenue collection by identifying buses with consistently low earnings. The transport body has used data analytics to flag nearly 150 buses that generate substantially lower passenger revenue.

These buses have been found to earn nearly 30% less passenger revenue than the average, prompting PMPML to direct depot managers to investigate the reasons. The public transport utility operates nearly 1,670 buses on 404 routes across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, generating approximately ₹1.5 crore in passenger revenue every day.

PMPML Chairman and Managing Director Mahesh Awhad stated that the administration would determine whether the low earnings were due to weak passenger demand or possible irregularities in ticketing and cash collection. If a route consistently records low ridership, the buses may be shifted to busier routes. However, if passenger demand is adequate but collections remain low, departmental action will be taken against conductors or other staff found responsible.

The analysis was carried out using the newly introduced Cargo FL software platform, which examined five years of ticketing data along with passenger and revenue records from July 20 to July 24. The review identified buses with unusually low collections and generated route-wise details, including bus numbers and the conductors assigned during the period.

Depot managers have been instructed to verify the reasons for the low revenue. Based on their findings, PMPML will either rationalise routes or initiate disciplinary proceedings against employees if any revenue collection irregularities are detected. The undertaking continues to face financial challenges, prompting the administration to focus on improving efficiency and strengthening monitoring mechanisms.

The use of data analytics is part of PMPML's efforts to improve operational efficiency and prevent revenue leakage. By using technology to identify areas of improvement, the transport body aims to ensure every rupee collected is properly accounted for.

The identification of low-performing buses is a significant step towards improving PMPML's financial health. With the transport body generating approximately ₹1.5 crore in passenger revenue every day, any efforts to improve efficiency and reduce revenue leakage will have a positive impact on its overall financial performance.

In the context of Pune's public transportation system, the use of data analytics to identify low-performing buses is a welcome move. It demonstrates PMPML's commitment to improving its services and ensuring that passengers have access to efficient and reliable public transportation.

The initiative is also significant for the city of Pune, as it highlights the importance of using technology to improve public services. By leveraging data analytics, PMPML can make data-driven decisions to improve its operations and provide better services to passengers.

In conclusion, the identification of 150 low-performing buses by PMPML using data analytics is a significant step towards improving the transport body's financial health and operational efficiency. The use of technology to identify areas of improvement and prevent revenue leakage will have a positive impact on PMPML's overall financial performance and demonstrate its commitment to providing efficient and reliable public transportation services to the city of Pune.