Pune Traffic : Despite significant investments by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to improve traffic flow, Pune has been ranked as the fourth most congested city globally and the third most congested city in India, according to the recently released TomTom Traffic Index.
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This ranking underscores the city’s growing traffic woes, with an average travel time of 33 minutes and 22 seconds to cover 10 kilometers. This figure places Pune behind Barranquilla, Kolkata, and Bengaluru in terms of traffic congestion. Notably, Pune’s ranking has worsened compared to 2023, when it was listed as the seventh most congested city globally.
The PMC has allocated a substantial budget of Rs 764 crore for traffic management projects in 2024-25, including the reconstruction of railway bridges, construction of flyovers and grade separators, and the development of new parking bays. Additionally, the “Mission 15” initiative aims to improve traffic flow on 15 key roads through repairs, signal optimization, and the removal of encroachments.
However, despite these efforts, traffic congestion continues to plague the city. Experts attribute this to several factors, including a rapidly increasing population, a surge in private vehicle ownership, and inadequate public transportation infrastructure. (Pune Traffic)
Concerns and Recommendations:
Urban Planning: Experts emphasize the need for a comprehensive review of the city’s urban planning policies, particularly those related to high-rise construction. They argue that the current focus on high-rise development exacerbates population density and contributes to increased traffic.
Public Transport: Promoting the use of public transportation through improved last-mile connectivity, increased frequency, and enhanced infrastructure is crucial. Discouraging private vehicle use through measures such as congestion charges and parking restrictions is also essential.
Sustainable Transportation: Encouraging cycling and walking through the development of dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and safe walking paths is vital for improving overall mobility and reducing reliance on private vehicles.
The traffic congestion in Pune poses significant challenges, including increased travel times, increased pollution levels, and a decline in quality of life. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that involves a combination of infrastructure improvements, public transport enhancements, and a shift towards more sustainable transportation options.
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