Pune: Senior Citizen Highlights Pedestrian Infrastructure Issues Ahead of PMC’s Pedestrian Day

Pune, 8th December 2024: In an email to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, senior citizen Damodar Shanbhag from Sinhagad Road has raised concerns regarding the state of pedestrian infrastructure in the city. Shanbhag’s letter comes in the backdrop of PMC’s announcement of Pedestrian Day on December 11, 2024, an initiative to promote walkability and pedestrian safety.

Shanbhag expressed his appreciation for the event but emphasized the pressing need to address systemic issues plaguing pedestrian spaces. “I have raised many complaints about pedestrian infrastructure over the last year. Unfortunately, the condition of footpaths remains poor and neglected,” Shanbhag stated in his letter.

He highlighted multiple issues impacting pedestrians:

1. Obstructions by hoardings and banners: Shanbhag noted that hoardings placed across zebra crossings force pedestrians to walk on carriageways, posing serious risks.
2. Design flaws and accessibility challenges: “Footpath heights are a major design flaw. Senior citizens face significant difficulty navigating these,” he added.
3. Obstructions on footpaths: Electric and telephone junction boxes, hanging wires, and poorly placed signage compel pedestrians to take diversions. “Pedestrians can’t walk straight on any footpath,” he pointed out.

Shanbhag also flagged specific problem areas, including:

• Sinhagad Road: Despite relocation of electric poles, studs left on footpaths cause injuries to pedestrians, with complaints to PMC going unaddressed.
• Poor visibility: Pedestrians face challenges due to inadequate lighting near Ramakrishna Math and Panmala.
• Encroachments: Vendors and unauthorized vehicles occupy footpaths near key locations, including Dandekar Pool, bus stands, and railway stations, creating hazards and causing congestion.

“The area around Dandekar bridge is entirely occupied by vehicles. No disciplinary action has been taken by any authority,” Shanbhag lamented. He also highlighted the misuse of footpaths by two-wheeler dealers who park new vehicles and place ramps for unloading on pedestrian spaces.

Shanbhag called for coordinated efforts by PMC and the police to tackle these challenges and ensure pedestrian safety. “A few focused efforts by PMC and the police can bring great relief to citizens and pedestrians,” he remarked, urging swift action.

The PMC has yet to respond to the concerns raised by Shanbhag. As the city prepares to celebrate Pedestrian Day, his detailed letter serves as a reminder of the urgent need for better pedestrian infrastructure to ensure safety and accessibility for all.