By Kavita Mistry 
Pune residents across the 12-district jurisdiction of the Regional Passport Office (RPO) can now apply for passports without visiting a Passport Seva Kendra, thanks to the launch of a mobile passport van service. The initiative, introduced for the first time in Pune RPO’s jurisdiction, aims to improve accessibility for students, senior citizens, and residents in underserved areas by bringing passport application facilities directly to select locations, including universities and remote regions. Applicants simply need to book an appointment on the Passport India website, select “RPO Mobile Van” as the application centre, and arrive at the scheduled location with required documents.
Pune RPO Launches Mobile Passport Van, Starting with SPPU to Aid Students
Regional Passport Officer Arjun Deore explained that the fully equipped air-conditioned van is designed to improve last-mile delivery of passport services. It is outfitted with biometric scanners, photo capture systems, and document verification tools. After its pilot run at the RPO Baner office, the van will make its second stop at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), catering specifically to students and staff who often face delays or travel challenges. The service will then expand to visit other colleges and remote areas in the coming weeks.
The mobile unit complements Pune RPO’s network of 19 Passport Seva Kendras and post office PSKs, as part of the Ministry of External Affairs’ outreach strategy to improve citizen services. Deore emphasized that the SPPU deployment is significant due to the high demand from students seeking passports for overseas education, internships, and conferences, many of whom are first-time applicants.
Mobile Passport Van to Bring Services to Campuses, Remote Areas Across Pune
The van offers complete passport application services, including submission, reducing dependence on fixed centres and cutting waiting times. Locations and schedules will be announced regularly, focusing on major educational institutions and remote districts. Residents within Pune city can also use the service, with appointments booked through the Passport India website. Updates on the van’s movements will be shared on the official Pune RPO X handle (@rpopune) and the Passport India portal.
Summary:
Pune RPO has launched a mobile passport van to serve 12 districts, offering full application services at universities and remote areas. Equipped with biometric and document tools, it aims to aid students, seniors, and underserved residents. Appointments are via Passport India website, with schedules announced regularly online.