Footpath survey finds 809 locations with hurdles in Pune

A recent survey by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified 809 locations across the city where pedestrians face significant obstacles while walking on footpaths. The most common issues include electricity poles and distribution panels (DPs) installed directly on the pathways.

Civic activists have accused some PMC officials of being complicit with hawkers, hindering effective enforcement against such encroachments. The survey was part of a ‘walking audit’ conducted by PMC officials, who physically inspected roads to identify maintenance problems. Participants included officials from ward offices and the road department.

The survey covered seven zones and documented various obstacles, including potholes, poor footpath quality, unscientific speed breakers, encroachments, and improperly designed cycle tracks. These issues severely impact pedestrian mobility and safety.

A senior PMC official reported, “We have recently submitted the report to the head office of the road department. The administration has identified obstacles and proposed actions against them.” The proposed actions include removing hawkers, filing cases, imposing fines, and confiscating materials. Additionally, the PMC has requested authorities like MSEDCL to relocate DPs and poles obstructing footpaths.

PMC data reveals that the city has approximately 1,700 km of roads, with footpaths provided on roads 12 meters wide and above, totalling around 438 km. Currently, footpaths have been constructed on 227 km of these roads, with an average width of 2 meters, one meter on each side.

The survey findings highlight significant pedestrian infrastructure issues. For instance, nearly 18,300 streetlights and at least 2,200 electricity poles are installed on roads and footpaths, posing considerable challenges for pedestrians.

Activists from citizen groups like Sangharsha Samiti have emphasized the need for stricter enforcement. “Several corporation officials, especially at the ward level, who have the responsibility of taking action, have vested interests in illegal hawking. Pedestrians suffer due to obstacles. The civic administration should ensure that footpath guidelines are followed and consistent action is taken against illegal hawkers and encroachments,” said a member of the group.

The PMC’s efforts to improve pedestrian infrastructure will require consistent enforcement and collaboration with various departments to remove these obstacles and create safer walking environments for the city’s residents.