62% Pune Roads Found To Be Narrower Than 9 Meters
Pune, 29th November 2023: The pune city is grappling with severe traffic congestion, with 62 per cent of its roads found to be narrower than 9 meters. A recent traffic improvement campaign on the ‘X’ app revealed that infrastructure deficiencies, lack of separate service roads, and poor drainage systems contribute significantly to the traffic problems. The campaign highlighted various traffic violations, such as signal breaking, wrong-way driving, lane cutting, and illegal parking, causing significant inconvenience to the public.
The Pune Platform for Collaboration Response (PPCR) collected data on traffic issues, improvements, and citizen suggestions through the ‘X’ app. Ninety-four significant posts were submitted, outlining findings, solutions, and major issues. A report was submitted to PPCR, leading to a meeting with Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Kumar Magar of the Pune Traffic Branch. Magar assured that the police would address the various topics raised in the meeting.
The report identified that the signal system at 375 major intersections in Pune needs improvement, with traffic police regulation recommended. Despite deploying 600 traffic police officers at these intersections, Rs. 250 crore in fines for traffic violations over the last three years remains unpaid. The report also emphasized that two-wheeler riders are the primary offenders of traffic violations.
Fatal accidents primarily affect cyclists and pedestrians, constituting 92 per cent of victims. The report stressed the need for stricter rules for two-wheeler riders, particularly those driving on the wrong side and footpaths. It suggested prosecuting offences directly in court and undertaking effective civic awareness campaigns.
Former President of Maratha Chamber Of Commerce, Industries & Agriculture, Sudhir Mehta, expressed concern over citizens’ lack of fear of the police, calling for strict law enforcement. The PPCR and Traffic Police plan to collaborate on traffic improvement by analyzing data, identifying traffic patterns, and targeting hotspots for violations. The PPCR has put forth measures and demands before the traffic police, indicating their readiness to work on traffic improvement collaboratively.
DCP (Traffic) Vijayakumar Magar affirmed the police’s commitment to working with PPCR to devise necessary solutions and address the city’s traffic challenges effectively.
