Kothrud Citizens Launch Signature Campaign Against Proposed Pune Metro Station, Traffic Planning
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Kothrud, 7th May 2026: Residents and traders in Kothrud have launched a large-scale signature campaign opposing the proposed Metro station planning, bus depot, and incomplete flyover works in the area. Citizens claim the current infrastructure plan could lead to severe traffic congestion, pollution, parking shortages, and long-term inconvenience, particularly along the already busy Paud Road corridor.
The campaign is being conducted under the banner of “Jagrut Punekar” and has drawn participation from local residents, traders, senior citizens, women, and youth groups. Protesters have demanded integrated and scientific traffic planning before the projects are implemented.
The agitation and signature drive follow several representations and letters submitted to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Maha Metro, and other government authorities regarding the proposed relocation and revised design of the Kothrud Metro Station. In their submissions, residents and traders objected to the revised station alignment, alleging that it could adversely affect redeveloped buildings, businesses, pedestrian access, and local traffic movement.
Citizens have also urged authorities to conduct an official public presentation explaining the complete traffic and infrastructure plan for the area and to accept written objections and suggestions from residents and experts.
Speaking during the campaign, Rahul Chavan said, “Development should take place with proper planning and public consultation. If authorities ignore local concerns, the entire Paud Road stretch may face severe traffic chaos in the future.”
Amit Botre criticised the lack of coordination among agencies and said, “Metro station, bus depot, and flyover planning cannot happen in isolation. Citizens are already struggling with traffic congestion, and without proper studies, the situation will worsen.”
Nilesh Saindane said the movement is not against development, but against “unplanned development.” He added, “Authorities must publicly present the project details and explain how traffic management, parking, pedestrian movement, and emergency access will be handled.”
Local resident Vishal Attal warned that citizens are prepared to intensify the agitation if their concerns continue to be ignored. “Citizens are united because this issue directly affects our daily lives, businesses, environment, and the future development of Kothrud,” he said.
The organisers have demanded:
Scientific and integrated planning of Metro, bus depot, and flyover projects
Alternative traffic management solutions for Paud Road
Public consultation meetings involving experts and citizens
Acceptance of written objections and suggestions
Publication of a detailed impact assessment report
Citizens have further warned that if decisions are taken hastily without considering public opinion, a larger public agitation may follow in the coming weeks.
Residents have also formed a dedicated WhatsApp group to coordinate awareness campaigns and collect signatures from different parts of Kothrud.
The campaign is being supported by Rahul Chavan, Nilesh Saindane, Vishal Attal, Amit Botre, Anil Chaudhary, Vinod Mavani, Jyoti Kiran Patil, Monish Thakur, and Parth Sonawane, along with several local residents and traders.
