The Pune airport is set to implement a time-bound system regulating private vehicle entry and exit to address escalating congestion issues on its premises.
This initiative aims to streamline traffic flow, reduce delays, and improve the overall commuter experience by limiting how long vehicles can remain within arrival and departure zones. Authorities have warned that vehicles violating these time restrictions will face penalties, a move that reflects the airport’s commitment to sustainable and orderly operations. Airport officials report that congestion has become a significant challenge, with numerous private vehicles lingering near terminals for extended periods under the guise of passenger drop-offs and pick-ups. Despite the presence of traffic wardens, overcrowding has persisted, impacting not only vehicular movement but also pedestrian safety. The planned system seeks to monitor and enforce maximum allowed parking durations, aligning Pune airport’s traffic management with practices already established at other major airports.
Traffic enforcement currently involves several wardens positioned strategically throughout the airport. However, the volume of vehicles and non-compliance have led to increased instances of gridlock, particularly during peak travel hours. According to airport management, the proposed time-bound entry system will involve logging the time of vehicle entry and exit, enabling precise tracking to identify violations. While the exact time limits and fine amounts are still under review, officials emphasise that the new policy will be strictly enforced to deter repeat offences. Historical data shows that Pune airport has experimented with similar regulations in the past. In 2019, vehicles remaining on airport grounds for more than three minutes were fined Rs340. Prior to that, a seven-minute limit was imposed with a smaller fine of Rs85 for violations. Currently, commercial vehicles like taxis are restricted to drop-offs only, whereas private vehicles are permitted both pick-ups and drop-offs. The updated policy is expected to tighten these controls further, reflecting a shift towards greater discipline in managing vehicular access.
Experts from airport management and local traffic authorities highlight the pressing need for this system, noting that unrestricted parking not only causes congestion but also contributes to higher emissions due to idling vehicles. Encouraging shorter stays is a step towards reducing carbon footprints in line with Pune’s broader goals for sustainable urban mobility and eco-friendly infrastructure. By minimising traffic snarls, the airport can also enhance air quality and promote gender-neutral, equitable public spaces that prioritise safety and convenience for all users. Regular commuters and frequent flyers echo concerns about current traffic challenges. Many report long queues forming at pick-up points during evening hours, where vehicles line up across multiple lanes, obstructing smooth flow and inconveniencing pedestrians. Residents living near the airport have observed spill-over effects, with parked vehicles causing congestion on adjacent roads such as New Airport Road and Symbiosis College Road. These local testimonies underscore the urgency of enforcing strict timing rules and encouraging responsible parking behaviours.
Furthermore, passengers using public transport face difficulties due to obstructed bus lanes often blocked by illegally parked private vehicles. This not only delays buses but also affects accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. The reintroduction and strict enforcement of time-based limits can help reclaim these essential spaces, ensuring safer and more efficient transit options within and around the airport. Traffic officials also stress the importance of setting fair and unchallengeable penalty rates. Previous attempts at timed parking regulations drew criticism for inconsistent enforcement and fines perceived as arbitrary. To maintain public trust and ensure compliance, the forthcoming policy will be backed by clear guidelines on timing and penalties. Authorities are consulting stakeholders to establish these parameters, balancing deterrence with reasonable allowances.
This move fits within Pune’s larger strategy of developing sustainable transport infrastructure that reduces congestion and pollution, improving the quality of life in this rapidly growing metropolitan area. By addressing bottlenecks at critical nodes such as the airport, city planners aim to create more resilient urban systems aligned with environmental responsibility and equitable access principles. While some commuters express concern over potential inconveniences, most acknowledge the necessity of reform given the current state of traffic mismanagement. The airport’s leadership remains committed to transparency and dialogue with the public as it rolls out the new system, aiming for smoother, safer, and greener airport access in the coming months.
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