Neglected footpaths, walkways irk Kalyani Nagar residents
Neglected footpaths, walkways irk Kalyani Nagar residents
Kalyani Nagar residents suffer as there is absence of footpaths, broken or neglected footpaths/walkways, etc near Bishop’s School in Kalyani Nagar.
Speaking to Pune Pulse, Drayson Dixon, Resident of Kalyani Nagar, said “The lack of basic facilities like footpaths and proper signage poses a serious threat to pedestrians, forcing them to share space with speeding vehicles. It’s appalling that despite repeated complaints, the authorities haven’t taken any concrete steps to address this issue. Instead of waiting for accidents to happen, they should conduct regular ground checks and ensure smooth traffic flow and safety measures are in place. How long will residents have to suffer due to the negligence of those in power?”
Haresh Bharwani, Resident of Kalyani Nagar, said “The footpaths are not maintained. In many places, they are broken. Nobody pays attention to the issue. The footpaths are not smooth. Hence, it is very difficult to walk in such areas. On the opposite side of Bishop’s school, there is no footpath at all. There must be proper footpaths on both sides of the road. Especially for senior citizens, the existing footpaths are not in a good condition.”
Rachna Agarwal, Resident of Kalyani Nagar, said “The basic structure is missing i.e. a proper footpath. Currently, several footpaths are not maintained at all. Hawkers set up their business on the good footpaths. There are no basic services provided, along with footpaths, like road, water etc. Footpaths are full of encroachments. Where is the PMC? It’s high time the PMC manages the basics. Also, not only walking on the roads with no footpaths is a risk, but also walking on non-maintained footpaths is a risk. Firstly, footpaths are not there at all. Secondly, several footpaths in Kalyani Nagar are not maintained & neglected. Thirdly, whatever good footpaths are there are encroached by the hawkers.”
Monica S, Resident of Kalyani Nagar, said “Witnessing seniors and kids risking their lives while navigating Ramwadi – Viman Nagar Road is disheartening. It’s unfortunate that we, as residents, continually raise complaints instead of the authorities proactively ensuring our safety. A basic footpath is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. The authorities should conduct ground reality checks to ensure smooth traffic flow, eliminating potential hazards. The prevalent habit of driving on the wrong side only exacerbates the risks. Urgent action is essential. Pune deserves safer streets, and it’s high time the authorities prioritize our well-being over bureaucratic delays.”
As per further information from Kalyani Nagar residents,
· The Dangers of Non-Existent Footpaths
The stretch from Ramwadi to Viman Nagar Road is a prime example of the negligence shown towards pedestrian safety. The area witnesses heavy traffic throughout the day, with vehicles speeding past each other, leaving little room for pedestrians to maneuver. In the absence of designated footpaths or walkways, people are forced to share the roads with cars, two-wheelers, and heavy vehicles. This situation is not only risky but also invites accidents, putting the lives of pedestrians at stake.
· Senior Citizens: The Most Vulnerable Group
Among those affected by the lack of footpaths, senior citizens are the most vulnerable. They often struggle to navigate through the chaotic traffic, with many finding it challenging to keep up with the pace of the fast-moving vehicles. Their limited mobility and declining physical abilities make them more susceptible to accidents. It’s heartbreaking to see elderly individuals struggling to cross the road, often relying on the kindness of strangers to help them reach the other side safely.
· Inconvenience and Hardships Faced by Residents
Residents living in areas surrounding the Ramwadi-Viman Nagar Road corridor face immense hardships due to the absence of proper footpaths. Daily commutes become daunting tasks, where they must choose between risking their lives by walking on the road or spending extra time and money to find alternative modes of transportation. Parents with young children and school-going students are among those severely impacted, as they must brave the dangerous roads every day.
· Negative Impact on Health and Wellbeing
The lack of footpaths and walkways not only endangers the lives of pedestrians but also affects their mental and physical health. The constant stress of negotiating heavy traffic can lead to anxiety, hypertension, and other health issues. Moreover, the absence of safe spaces for walking and exercising discourages people from engaging in physical activity, contributing to a sedentary lifestyle and associated health problems.
· Consequences of Ignoring Basic Infrastructure Needs
It’s alarming that despite being aware of these concerns, the authorities continue to ignore the need for proper footpaths and walkways. By neglecting such fundamental infrastructure requirements, the city’s vision of becoming a “smart city” remains incomplete. The consequences of this oversight are severe.
· Accidents and Fatalities
The most obvious consequence is the increased risk of accidents and fatalities. Without dedicated pathways, pedestrians remain exposed to the dangers of motorized vehicles, resulting in avoidable injuries and deaths.
PMC’S Say On Neglected Footpaths in Kalyani Nagar
Sunil Muley, Branch Engineer, PMC, said “Currently, a footpath is getting built in Bishop’s school area in Kalyani Nagar. Footpath on one side of the road is planned to be completed in a some days i.e. till the end of December 2023. Some equipments required to build footpaths were received late, hence, the work got a bit delayed. Now that the required equipments have been received, footpath on one side will be done till the end of December 2023. Soon, footpath for the other side will be discussed & work of erecting the footpath will start.”
Shreyas Vange
