The burgeoning traffic congestion in Pune City has reached critical levels, with a surge in instances of two-wheelers and auto-rickshaws utilizing pedestrian walkways to navigate through congested roads. Prominent areas affected include Pune University Chowk, Jungli, Nal Stop, Juna Bazaar, Mangalwar Peth, Pune-Satara road, Ambedkar Chowk, Pimpri, and Solapur Bazaar to Golibar Maidan.
Safety Hazards and Deteriorating Footpaths
The deteriorating condition of footpaths, marked by broken bollards facilitating easy vehicle access, poses safety hazards and marginalizes pedestrians. Concerned citizens highlight the confrontations with bikers and incessant honking, leaving pedestrians feeling unprotected.
Disruptions in Four-Wheeled Traffic Flow
This encroachment not only infringes upon pedestrian rights but also disrupts the flow of four-wheeled traffic, contributing to congestion, particularly near JM Road and Law College Road. The resulting delays affect motorists, including those relying on public transportation services.
Traffic Police Pune’s Response
To address these challenges, the Traffic Police Pune has intensified enforcement efforts, ensuring compliance with traffic regulations and imposing fines ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 2000. Police Inspector Shafil Pathan has also urged the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for prompt repairs of damaged bollards to deter further encroachments.
