👀 Bussing about town

#417 | Public transport for dummies

Hello there, 

In Pune, I’ve almost always had the privilege and luxury of a personal vehicle. So I haven’t known or thought about our public transit system very much.

(Evidence that I have used the bus in other cities)

Today’s Thing changed that a little bit.

@bus_kara_ is a citizen-led initiative about getting around in Pune – “the good, bad and everything in between”. It is a call to action to the public bus service provider, PMPML, to stop neglecting this essential service.

Busकरा also tries to make what can be a painful process for citizens a little smoother. They have a WhatsApp group for PMPML commuters to help each other figure out bus routes, schedules, and the like.

There’s their PMPML 101 guide, which has some useful tips to navigate buses in Pune, especially for first-timers. (Spoiler: it largely involves talking to people on the streets.)

And then there are their #SpotTheStop posts.

I still haven’t decided if I find this depressing or hilarious.

I can’t say Busकरा has me super enthused about using buses within Pune; the account highlights too many problems with the infrastructure. But at least it sets expectations right.

And regardless of the existing issues, it uses its many initiatives to encourage more people to use public transit. After all, public buses, trains, etc., will always be more sustainable (and more inclusive, in some ways) than personal vehicles. And for the bus system to improve, citizens need to use it actively.

I’m not enthused, but I am definitely a bit more curious. Considering traffic is terrible amidst metro construction, flyover demolition, and people’s general refusal to follow traffic rules, maybe I will actually use the bus.

Wish me luck on what I’m expecting will be a (chaotic?) adventure.

R