Punes road safety drive targets high-risk zones
Pune’s roads have long been a focal point of concern, with rising traffic congestion and frequent accidents highlighting critical infrastructural flaws. In an effort to curb the growing number of fatalities and injuries, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the city’s traffic police have launched an initiative to redesign accident-prone black spots across the city. With 1,404 road accidents recorded in 2024 alone, leading to 1,320 injuries and 320 deaths, authorities are intensifying efforts to mitigate risks through strategic modifications and proactive safety measures.
The collaborative approach between the traffic police and the PMC road department underscores the urgency of addressing black spots—high-risk zones where accidents frequently occur. By examining traffic patterns and analysing accident data, authorities are implementing targeted interventions such as improving junction layouts, filling potholes, and enhancing road markings. Traffic police officials have emphasised that these measures are not just reactive but part of an ongoing strategy to reassess and rectify urban mobility hazards. The identification of accident-prone zones is an evolving process, with new black spots being continuously added to the list based on fresh data and local police inputs. The city currently has 19 officially designated black spots, though the numbers are expected to rise as assessments continue. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Amol Zende stated that traffic police routinely provide suggestions to civic authorities regarding infrastructural changes needed at these hazardous locations. The implementation of these recommendations, he noted, has led to a marked reduction in accidents at several critical points. However, the high density of traffic in Pune demands constant vigilance and infrastructural adaptation.
The coordination between municipal engineers, traffic inspectors, and the public works department has been instrumental in ensuring that remedial measures are promptly executed. In addition to road modifications, authorities are also focusing on deploying personnel to monitor high-risk areas and enforce traffic discipline, further reducing the chances of collisions. The alarming rise in road fatalities underscores the importance of sustained intervention. A comparative analysis with 2023 data reveals that 351 people lost their lives in road accidents last year, a figure that, while slightly lower than 2024’s current statistics, remains unacceptably high. The dynamic nature of urban expansion, coupled with increasing vehicular density, necessitates continuous investment in road safety. The PMC’s road department head, Aniruddha Pawaskar, highlighted the consistent communication between civic engineers and traffic inspectors in ensuring that necessary upgrades are implemented without bureaucratic delays. By prioritising safety-centric urban planning, Pune aims to not only mitigate road accidents but also set a precedent for sustainable, human-centric city development.
As Pune grapples with rapid urbanisation, this initiative serves as a crucial step towards creating a safer, more efficient commuting experience for residents. While infrastructural improvements play a significant role, long-term success will also depend on public adherence to traffic regulations and enhanced enforcement mechanisms. With authorities committed to reassessing and updating their strategies, the city’s efforts in road safety mark a decisive move towards responsible urban governance
