PMPML mulls over issuing MI cards without Aadhaar

Pune: With confusion prevailing over linking of Aadhaar cards with various essential services, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) is considering accepting other identification documents for issuing MI cards.

With officials in the transport body claiming that until now close to 18,000 cards have been disbursed, a senior official told TOI, "For getting MI card, one has to have an Aadhaar card. However, PMPML is ready and will consider other forms of identification too and a decision in connection with the same will be taken. We do understand that many people are still struggling to get Aadhaar cards. However, even if one has applied for the same and wants a MI card, they can show the document and PMPML will allow them access to MI cards."

With bus conductors using automated ticket vending mobile machines instead of paper tickets, these cards can be used to deduct fares on all routes, PMPML authorities said.

"The registration process for getting MI cards is simple and 14 PoS (point of sale) counters have been opened by PMPML across the city. One can also log on to PMPML website and apply for the card. Right now, Aadhaar card is mandatory to get MI cards. An instruction on accepting other forms of identification is awaited from the higher'-ups. The system, for enrolment of MI cards, has been made in such a way that Aadhaar number has to be keyed in during data feeding," a transport official said.

PMPML CMD Tukaram Mundhe did not to reply to a WhatsApp message sent to him in this connection.

Commuters felt other forms of identification needed to be accepted too. "A special three-day camp was held in our area for Aadhaar enrolment in September but even after standing for hours in the queue, I failed to enrol myself. MI cards will soon become an inseparable part of commuting and it is important that the authorities relax the norm," Sagar Nagre, a student and resident of Kondhwa, said.

District UIDAI officials have been organising special Aadhaar drives in different wards of the city on the basis instruction given by the collector. More such camps will be organised in future. The Centre recently informed the Supreme Court that the deadline for linking Aaadhar card with government services had been extended to March 31 next year.

"People coming to bus pass centres for renewing monthly passes are being given applications for MI cards. They just need to fill the form, attach a photocopy of the Aadhaar document or card along with their picture and submit it. We are in the process of using postal services to deliver the cards to customers," the official added.