E-Pass Requirements For Pune: What Travelers Need To Know

As of May 2021, an e-pass was required to travel to Pune, India, due to the COVID-19 lockdown. However, essential service providers did not require a travel pass for inter-state or intra-state travel. To obtain an e-pass, individuals needed to provide specific identification documents, including a passport-size photo, an Aadhar Card, a driving license, and an RC Book of the vehicle. Additionally, a valid doctor's certificate, medical certificate, or fitness certificate was required, confirming that the individual was fit to travel, had not travelled abroad recently, showed no symptoms of COVID-19, and had a recorded temperature below 99.1°F. The process for applying for an e-pass varied depending on the state and could be done through the respective state government websites.

Do I need an e-pass to travel to Pune by air?

If you are travelling to Pune by air, you may be wondering if you need an e-pass to enter the city. Here is some information that will help you determine if you need an e-pass for your travel.

Firstly, it is important to note that Pune Airport, also known as Pune International Airport, is located approximately 10-11 kilometres (6.8 miles) northeast of Pune's city centre. The airport serves as a major hub for flights into and out of Pune and offers both domestic and international flights. Pune Airport has a single civil passenger terminal with various modern amenities and services, including shops, restaurants, lounges, ATMs, and currency exchange services.

In terms of e-pass requirements, according to Pune Police Commissioner Amitabh Gupta, an e-pass is not necessary for domestic flight travel to and from destinations within Maharashtra. However, if you are arriving by air and need to travel further by road, it is advisable to apply for an e-pass for the road travel in advance. For example, if you are flying into Pune and then travelling to Mumbai by road, having an e-pass will facilitate a smoother journey.

Additionally, keep in mind that other states in India, such as Kerala, may have their own e-pass systems in place. Therefore, if your travel involves passing through or visiting other states, be sure to check their specific requirements.

To summarise, for domestic travel to Pune by air, an e-pass is typically not required. However, if your trip involves any road travel or travel to other states, it is recommended to check the latest guidelines and requirements to ensure a seamless journey.

What documents do I need to obtain an e-pass to travel to Pune?

To obtain an e-pass to travel to Pune, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A passport-size photo of the driver/applicant (with a size limit of 200 KB)
• An Aadhaar Card (PDF version)
• A driving licence (PDF version)
• The RC Book of the Vehicle (PDF version)
• A valid doctor's certificate/medical certificate/fitness certificate (with a size limit of 1 MB)

The certificate must be obtained from a local doctor, general practitioner, or hospital, and should state that:

• The holder is fit to travel
• The holder has not travelled abroad in the past two weeks
• The holder is showing no signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• The holder's recorded temperature is below 99.1° F at the time of the application

If you are applying from within Mumbai City, you can upload each individual's documents separately. However, if you are applying from outside Mumbai City, you need to zip each type of document from each individual into a single file.

In addition to these documents, you will also need to provide details such as your identification number, address, and the purpose of your travel. The process for applying for an e-pass is straightforward and can be done through the Maharashtra Government's bilingual website.

Where can I apply for an e-pass to travel to Pune?

The Maharashtra government has set up a bilingual website for e-pass applications: https://covid19.mhpolice.in/. This website can be used to apply for an e-pass for travel within Maharashtra or outside the state.

To apply for an e-pass, you will need the following documents:

• A passport-size photo of the applicant/the driver (Size Limit: 200 KB)
• An Aadhar Card (PDF version)
• Driving license (PDF version)
• RC Book of the vehicle (PDF version)
• A valid doctor's certificate/medical certificate/fitness certificate (Size Limit: 1 MB)

If you are applying from within Mumbai City, you can upload each individual’s documents separately. If you are applying from outside Mumbai city, you need to zip each type of document from each individual into a single file.

Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an application reference number that can be used to track your application status. If you are applying from Mumbai City, you will get a response within 24 hours of your application. If you are applying from Thane, Kalyan, Panvel, Badlapur, and surrounding areas, expect a response within 6 hours.

Please note that as of May 2021, the Maharashtra government had imposed a lockdown and curfew due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases. During this time, an e-pass was required for travelling within the state or from one district to another for emergency reasons. It is recommended that you check the latest guidelines and restrictions before travelling.

How soon can I expect a response to my e-pass application to travel to Pune?

If you are applying for an e-pass from Mumbai City, you will get a response within 24 hours of your application, stating whether your request has been accepted or rejected. If you are applying from Thane, Kalyan, Panvel, Badlapur, and surrounding areas, expect a response within 6 hours of your application.

You are more likely to get an e-pass issued in your name if you apply from Pune. If your reason to travel falls under a medical emergency, there is a higher chance that your e-pass application will be accepted.

The Maharashtra Government has set up an easy-to-use, bilingual website for applications: https://covid19.mhpolice.in/.

• A passport-size photo of the driver/applicant (size limit: 200 KB)
• An Aadhar Card (PDF version)
• A driving license (PDF version)
• The RC Book of the vehicle (PDF version)
• A valid doctor's certificate/medical certificate/fitness certificate (size limit: 1 MB)

You can obtain a valid certificate from your local doctor, general practitioner (GP), or hospital. Some doctors may charge a small fee, while others may not. The certificate should state that the holder:

• Is fit to travel
• Has not travelled abroad in the past two weeks
• Is showing no signs or symptoms of COVID-19
• Has recorded a temperature below 99.1°F at the time of the application

What are the things to remember when applying for an e-pass to travel to Pune?

Applying for an e-pass to travel to Pune can be a straightforward process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth application. Here are some key points to remember:

Documentation

You will need to provide specific identification documents when applying for an e-pass. These typically include:

• A passport-size photo of the applicant/driver (ensure the size is within the specified limit, usually 200 KB).
• An Aadhar Card (PDF version).
• A valid driving license (PDF version).
• The RC Book of the vehicle (PDF version).
• A valid doctor's certificate/medical certificate/fitness certificate (ensure it meets the requirements and is within the specified size limit, usually 1 MB).

Application Process

The Maharashtra Government has set up a bilingual website for e-pass applications: https://covid19.mhpolice.in/. On this website, you will need to specify whether your travel is within the state of Maharashtra or across state borders.

If you are a resident of Mumbai City, select the option under the 'Select District/Police Commissioner' drop-down menu. You will then be redirected to the Mumbai Police page, where you will fill in your personal and travel details. The website offers a choice between Marathi and English.

Response Time

The response time for your e-pass application may vary depending on your location. For residents of Mumbai City, you can expect a response within 24 hours of submission, while those applying from areas like Thane, Kalyan, Panvel, and Badlapur can expect a response within 6 hours.

Travel Guidelines

Once your e-pass is approved, you are authorized to travel within the state of Maharashtra. However, it is advisable to avoid crowded spots and opt for less populated destinations. Cooperate with local authorities and governing bodies, as they are working to control the spread of the virus.

Additional Considerations

Keep in mind that the requirements and procedures may change over time, so ensure you are referring to the most up-to-date information from official sources. Additionally, note that an e-pass may not be required for certain categories, such as essential services or travel for a Covid vaccination appointment.

By following these guidelines and providing the necessary documentation, you can increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful application process for your travel to Pune.

Frequently asked questions