Citizens and dedicated activists in Pune have united in a collective effort to advocate for a ‘Free Bus Day’ in the city. Their initiative seeks to combat the escalating issues of air pollution and traffic congestion that have plagued the region over recent years. The Pune Air Action Club, a platform committed to enhancing the city’s air quality, has formally submitted a letter to the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal (PMPML), Pune Municipal Corporation, and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, outlining their demand.
In the letter, members of the advocacy group put forth a compelling proposition: designating September 7 as ‘Free Bus Day’ in Pune, coinciding with the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies. This initiative, they emphasize, serves a dual purpose. It not only promotes the significance of clean air but also encourages citizens to make a conscious shift towards cleaner modes of transportation.
Recent reports from various organizations have highlighted alarming air quality levels in Pune. The surge in private vehicles on the city’s roads has exacerbated this issue, prompting activists to seek remedies that boost public transport ridership as a viable solution.
Civic officials have acknowledged the receipt of the activist group’s letter. They have conveyed their commitment to deliberate on the proposal in consultation with relevant authorities, aiming to address the concerns raised. The initiative, if implemented, holds the potential to significantly raise awareness about the importance of clean air while fostering a collective commitment to environmentally responsible commuting practices among Pune’s residents.
