‘Walk to Work’ Plan Gains Momentum To Ease Traffic Woes In Pune’s Industrial Zones
Pune, 16th April 2025: Employees working in the MIDC industrial zones around Pune are grappling daily with severe traffic congestion, leading to long commutes lasting anywhere between two to four hours. In a move to address this persistent issue, the Urban Development Department has issued directives to local governing bodies to accelerate the implementation of the “Walk to Work” concept. Authorities have also been instructed to prepare a comprehensive blueprint to facilitate this transition.
The “Walk to Work” idea—already adopted in several countries—aims to establish residential zones near workplaces, allowing employees to walk to their offices and reduce dependence on vehicles. Pune district, a prominent industrial and IT hub, includes major MIDC areas in Chakan (Khed taluka), Talegaon (Maval taluka), and Ranjangaon (Shirur taluka). IT parks in Hinjawadi and industrial clusters in Pirangut (Mulshi), Daund, and Jejuri also host large working populations, most of whom travel from urban areas and spend considerable time on daily commutes.
Despite repeated efforts, the state government has not yet achieved a lasting solution to the growing problem of traffic congestion. To address this, the Urban Development Department has recently issued a circular promoting the “Walk to Work” policy, asking municipal bodies to support residential development near industrial zones.
Key measures include permitting residential use of land adjacent to industrial areas, constructing affordable housing for workers via the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA), and ensuring that essential infrastructure like schools and basic amenities are established close to workplaces.
