Ludhiana: Operational safety concerns have mounted over the deteriorating condition of the Punbus fleet, as buses are being run on worn-out tyres, weak batteries, and makeshift repairs due to an acute shortage of spare parts and severe financial constraints.The risks hit the ground on Monday when a Moga-bound Punbus suffered a tyre burst mid-journey, prompting an inspection by a department official after a passenger travelling from Delhi was reportedly injured. Staff warn that excessive tyre wear significantly increases the risk of bursts during the ongoing rainy season.Drivers and conductors reported that battery failures are equally frequent, particularly in newer sensor-based models that shut down completely if voltage drops. “The situation is precarious. We never know when a tyre will burst or when the battery will give way. Driving these buses has become risky, especially during the rains,” said a driver on the condition of anonymity.Passengers voiced frustration over frequent breakdowns, with some recalling instances of having to push buses to get them started. Workshop staff and mechanics revealed that delayed parts shipments force them to cannibalise components from parked vehicles to keep operational buses running.Departmental sources attributed the upkeep crisis to severe financial pressure, alleging that govt reimbursements for the free bus travel scheme for women have fallen short of meeting operational costs. This shortfall has hindered the timely procurement of new tyres, batteries, and essential spares for both Punbus and PRTC fleets.Refuting the claims, Punbus depot manager Navraj Batish stated that the operational situation was not as alarming as projected. He said nearly 10% of the buses remain stationed at the depot at any given time for routine maintenance and servicing, and that buses are serviced according to operational requirements to maintain uninterrupted public transport services.
