Pune-Nagar Road Traffic Changes Endanger Pedestrians, Say Citizens
Viman Nagar, 27th March 2025: The Association of Nagar Road Citizens Forum has raised strong objections to recent traffic changes on Nagar Road, stating that the lack of necessary infrastructure has created hazardous conditions for pedestrians and other road users.
In a letter addressed to senior traffic officials, including Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Amol Zende, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Subhash Nikam, and officials from the Vishrantwadi and Viman Nagar traffic divisions, the forum acknowledged the traffic police’s efforts to improve traffic flow. However, it criticized the implementation of changes without adequate safety measures.
“We have always supported the Traffic Police, but in this instance, we strongly object to the partial manner in which the plans are being executed without the required infrastructure to control speed and ensure passenger safety,” said Qaneez Sukhrani, Convenor of the Association of Nagar Road Citizens Forum.
The forum highlighted several key concerns, including:
The removal of traffic signals at Shastri Nagar Chowk, Wadgaon Sheri Junction, Viman Nagar Chowk, and Dargah Chowk at Kharadi Old Jakat Naka, which has resulted in vehicle speeds reaching highway levels.
Insufficient barriers and blinkers at U-turn locations, making it dangerous for vehicles to maneuver safely.
The absence of rumble strips and speed breakers near U-turns, increasing the risk of collisions.
The lack of pedestrian crossings, zebra crossings, and wardens, forcing pedestrians to dash across the road amid fast-moving traffic.
Sukhrani also mentioned her personal experience, stating, “I have nearly been in accidents twice, not just once, at the Wadgaon Sheri Junction.”
The citizens’ group urged the traffic police to immediately install visible signboards, barricades, and traffic-calming measures to prevent accidents. They also demanded the release of traffic survey data to assess the impact of the changes.
The forum has requested an urgent meeting and site visit with traffic officials to discuss possible improvements. “The current situation cannot continue. Authorities must act before accidents force a return to the old traffic signal system,” Sukhrani emphasized.
The traffic department is yet to respond to the concerns raised by the citizens.
