Pune RTO Registers Over 3 Lakh Vehicles in 2024, Trend Shows Shift Towards Two-Wheelers
Pune’s vehicle registration statistics for 2024 reveal an intriguing yet concerning trend in the city’s transport sector. The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) reported that over 3 lakh vehicles were registered last year, marking a steady growth of 3.47% from 2023. While this may appear promising at first glance, a deeper analysis reveals a gradual decline in the growth rate over the years, raising questions about the long-term sustainability of urban transportation systems.
The data shows that motorcycles, or two-wheelers, continue to dominate Pune’s vehicle market. These vehicles accounted for around 60% of the total registrations in 2024, with figures inching towards the two-lakh mark. This is a clear indication of the growing preference for two-wheelers, which are perceived as more affordable and practical options for commuting in a rapidly urbanising city. As Pune continues to attract a substantial number of migrants, especially from the IT and education sectors, the demand for two-wheelers has soared, reflecting broader trends of urban mobility. However, while two-wheelers offer flexibility, they also contribute to road congestion and rising air pollution, issues that are already being felt in the city.
In comparison to the 15% spike in vehicle registrations witnessed in 2023, the growth in 2024 has been relatively modest, with a 3% increase. This slower growth rate follows a particularly sharp rise in registrations in 2022, attributed to post-pandemic recovery. However, the overall trend remains one of consistent expansion, with the city’s vehicle numbers growing year on year since 2021. Cars, auto rickshaws, and goods carriers have also experienced growth, though at a much slower pace. The rise in goods carriers, while marginal, stands out due to its sustainability implications, as these vehicles are essential for supporting the city’s economy but contribute significantly to emissions and traffic congestion.
The rapid increase in vehicle registrations, particularly two-wheelers, raises significant concerns for Pune’s urban planning and sustainability efforts. The city’s infrastructure, designed for a much lower volume of vehicles, is increasingly strained, leading to traffic bottlenecks and pollution. The rising number of vehicles poses a challenge for urban planners who must balance the growing demand for mobility with the need to reduce emissions and preserve the city’s green spaces. Efforts to promote public transport, cycling, and walking must be given more attention if the city is to avoid the pitfalls of uncontrolled urban sprawl.
From a sustainability perspective, Pune’s urban mobility model must evolve to accommodate the needs of a growing population without sacrificing quality of life. The city’s reliance on two-wheelers, while understandable given the convenience they offer, must be balanced with greener alternatives. The implementation of electric vehicles (EVs) is one such solution that could help mitigate pollution. However, to realise this vision, the city needs a robust policy framework that includes incentives for EV adoption, infrastructure upgrades such as charging stations, and a stronger focus on expanding public transport. The current trajectory suggests that without these interventions, the environmental sustainability of Pune will be at risk.
