The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has embarked on an ambitious endeavour with the initiation of a Local Area Plan (LAP) targeting the zones within a 500-meter radius of four strategic metro stations: Vanaz, Swargate, Pune Railway Station, and Ramnagar-Baner.
This initiative is poised to invigorate both residential and commercial sectors by leveraging a higher Floor Space Index (FSI) as prescribed by the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR), with the overarching aim of advancing transit-oriented development. The LAP by PMC is designed to seamlessly integrate city-wide mobility and infrastructure enhancements with localized accessibility improvements. This approach entails a combination of organic urban renewal and meticulously planned redevelopment strategies. A significant aspect of this plan is the provision of additional FSI and the facilitation of converting residential properties to commercial use, thereby incentivising development. In a bid to curb reliance on private vehicles, the LAP will impose parking restrictions and promote metro feeder services alongside other public transport alternatives.
A notable component of the LAP is the focus on revitalising slum areas, with the goal of creating additional commercial spaces to attract businesses and boost revenue streams. The success of this initiative hinges on robust stakeholder consultations, ensuring that community feedback plays a pivotal role in shaping the LAP. Following these discussions, the draft LAP and its corresponding plans will undergo a comprehensive review by PMC before being made public. The targeted 10-month timeline underscores PMC’s commitment to a holistic approach towards sustainable urban growth. This plan is expected to significantly enhance both the livability and economic vibrancy around Pune’s expanding metro network.
PMC Commissioner, Shekhar Singh, emphasised the transformative potential of this initiative. “The LAP around these key metro stations will not only enhance connectivity and mobility but will also stimulate economic activity and improve the quality of life for residents,” he stated. The implementation of the LAP is anticipated to set a benchmark for future urban development projects across the city. The focus on transit-oriented development, coupled with strategic infrastructure enhancements, positions Pune as a model for sustainable urban growth. The incorporation of community feedback ensures that the plan is attuned to the needs and aspirations of local residents, paving the way for a more inclusive and resilient urban landscape.
By prioritising public transport and reducing dependency on private vehicles, the LAP aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce environmental impact. The promotion of commercial activities within residential zones is expected to create vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhoods that cater to the diverse needs of the city’s populace.
