Ludhiana, March 5 -- As many as 23 Punjab Roadways buses from the Ludhiana depot are on the verge of condemnation, raising concerns over the dwindling fleet and the lack of new additions. According to officials, out of the 115 buses operated by the depot, nearly 20% are nearing the end of their serviceable life, leaving commuters in a lurch.

As per norms, buses covering five lakh kilometers or completing seven years of service are deemed unfit for operations. However, due to persistent shortages, many vehicles continue running for up to 15 years before being scrapped, officials added.

A senior official from the Ludhiana depot, requesting anonymity, confirmed that these buses have surpassed their operational limits and are in a poor cond...