Pune: PCMC, ITDP Redesign Streets to Make Them Safer and More Inclusive
Pune, May 24, 2025: In a significant move toward safer and more inclusive urban mobility, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) and the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) have redesigned multiple streets across Pune’s twin city, including key stretches in Nigdi, Dapodi, and Pradhikaran. The pilot work on most of these streets is nearing completion, with early reports indicating improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Bapusaheb Gaikwad, Joint City Engineer (Urban Mobility Department, PCMC), emphasized, “Pedestrians and cyclists have as much right to safe streets as motorists, which is why this new infrastructure is critical.”
These upgrades are part of PCMC’s ‘Urban Streetscapes Programme’, aligning with a recent Supreme Court order (May 14) directing states and UTs to ensure obstruction-free footpaths. One of the most notable transformations is along the old Mumbai-Pune highway, which previously lacked usable footpaths. The redesigned stretch now features continuous footpaths, dedicated cycle tracks, street furniture, green buffers, and safer junctions—without reducing motor vehicle space.
Despite the benefits, some critics have raised concerns about reduced carriageway space. Gaikwad clarified, “We are not reducing capacity; we are reallocating unusable space by streamlining parking and motor lanes to prevent bottlenecks.”
With private vehicle ownership nearing 90 per 100 people, experts warn that widening roads is unsustainable. Sunil Pawar, Executive Engineer, noted, “More road space attracts more vehicles, bringing back congestion. The long-term solution is promoting walking, cycling, and public transport.”
Speeding remains a major concern, with average speeds hitting 50 kmph (peaking at 81 kmph). A survey found 59% of respondents identified speeding as a critical hazard.
Pranjal Kulkarni (ITDP India) stated, “Before these interventions, only 45% of streets had walkable footpaths. This redesign prioritizes the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, not just motorists.”
PCMC assured that the upgrades go beyond beautification, incorporating stormwater drains, better lighting, and structural improvements adhering to IRC standards. Architect Prasanna Desai added, “These streets are designed for all stakeholders—pedestrians, cyclists, vendors, and motorists—ensuring safety and seamless movement.”
The project involved extensive public consultations, integrating feedback from residents, RWAs, vendors, and traffic police.
