Pune: In a move aimed at curbing fare evasion, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) has promoted nearly 175 drivers to the role of ticket inspector, effectively doubling its inspection team.

The decision follows PMPML’s induction of a significant number of contractor-run buses into its fleet. Under this model, both drivers and conductors are appointed by the contractors, who are paid ₹83 per kilometre. PMPML currently operates around 1,650 buses across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, serving nearly 10 lakh commuters daily.

Previously, only 160 ticket inspectors were deployed to check for ticketless travel. However, with the addition of 400 new contractor-operated buses—300 of which are already in service—the transport body has ramped up its enforcement efforts. There have been growing concerns about whether conductors appointed by contractors are consistently issuing tickets to passengers.

“Although these conductors are not PMPML employees, their work will now be closely monitored by our inspectors,” said PMPML CMD Deepa Mudhol-Munde. She confirmed that the number of ticket inspectors has been increased to tighten oversight on fare collection.

The newly appointed inspectors will focus specifically on contractor-operated buses to ensure all passengers are issued valid tickets. Of the promoted staff, 16 are nearing retirement, but about 160 fresh inspectors will soon be active across the network, according to PMPML officials.