Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is making a significant move to promote pedestrian safety and urban sustainability by celebrating Pedestrians Day on Laxmi Road. On Wednesday, vehicular movement will be diverted from the busy road between 8 am and 8 pm to make way for a series of interactive events aimed at raising awareness on pedestrian rights and road safety. This initiative, part of a broader effort to enhance pedestrian infrastructure, underscores the growing need for sustainable urban development where footpaths, crossings, and public spaces are given equal importance as roads for vehicles.
A key feature of the day will be the closure of a section of Laxmi Road, from Sevasadan Chowk to Garud Ganapati Chowk, which will remain free of vehicular traffic. PMC officials have stressed that this event is not just symbolic but serves as a catalyst for deeper civic changes. Alongside exhibitions, there will be special sessions for children focused on safety measures, traffic rules, and responsible road behaviour. These sessions aim to equip the younger generation with the necessary tools to become responsible citizens, contributing to safer and more pedestrian-friendly cities in the future.
In line with its goal to improve pedestrian infrastructure, the PMC has identified several key chowks across the city where safety measures will be implemented. These measures include the repair of footpaths, marking zebra crossings, and better signage to make roads safer for pedestrians. Additionally, in response to urbanisation, which has led to a rise in traffic-related issues, PMC plans to expand these initiatives to six major chowks across different city zones, including Koregaon Park, Kalyaninagar, and Deccan College, which have witnessed growing pedestrian traffic in recent years.
This initiative also aligns with sustainable urban development. By reducing traffic and focusing on pedestrian-centric infrastructure, the city takes a crucial step toward decongesting urban spaces, lowering carbon emissions, and promoting greener alternatives to private vehicle usage. With a focus on reducing traffic accidents and promoting healthier lifestyles, such events contribute not only to safety but also to the city’s long-term sustainability goals. As the city continues to grow, ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with urban demands will be key to maintaining a balance between development and environmental responsibility.
