PMC to host Pedestrian Day on December 11, Plans Exciting Programs to Promote Road Safety
PMC to observe ‘Pedestrian Day’ on December 11 on Laxmi road
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is gearing up to celebrate 11th of December as Pedestrian Day, a significant initiative aimed at prioritizing road safety and raising awareness about the rights of pedestrians. In a pioneering move, PMC stands as the first municipal corporation in India to annually celebrate Pedestrian Day.
Despite being the crucial components of road usage, pedestrians often face neglect, as indicated by studies highlighting their vulnerability in road accidents nationwide. This initiative is designed to shed light on the importance of pedestrian safety and rights, with a special focus on vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, women, as well as visually impaired, disabled, and all citizens.
Collaborating with entities such as Pune Traffic Police and the Lakshmi Road Traders Association is integral to the success of Pedestrian Day. The event underscores the rightful usage of pedestrian safety measures, including well-maintained footpaths, clearly marked crossings, refuge islands, traffic signals, information boards, and street lighting.
PMC’s Road Department takes the lead in organizing Pedestrian Day, with Lakshmi Road, one of Pune city’s busiest thoroughfares, serving as the focal point for main events. Simultaneously, efforts are underway to enhance pedestrian safety at 100 key locations across Pune.
On the day, the route from Nagarkar Talim Chowk to Umbraya Ganapati Chowk to Garud Ganapati Chowk will be designated a vehicle-free zone and adorned attractively. Vehicle access will be restricted from 10 am to 8 pm on December 11.
To encourage maximum citizen participation, special bicycles will be arranged from Deccan Metro Station and PMC Metro Station through Maha Metro, accompanied by additional bus services provided by PMPML.
Citizens are encouraged to partake in the festivities on Lakshmi Road “Walking Plaza” by walking or utilizing alternative roads to reduce traffic. Several programs have been organized for public awareness and entertainment, including “Happy Street” by Times of India and Mata Group, road safety workshops for children, sensitization sessions for the blind and disabled, exhibitions, street plays, and musical performances.
As part of the celebration, PMC has extended an invitation to citizens to contribute their talents on the Laxmi Road “Walking Plaza” stage, provided they secure permission from municipal authorities.
This Pedestrian Day marks a new chapter for Lakshmi Road, celebrating its centenary, with the hope that citizens will embrace walking over private vehicle usage to promote a cleaner environment and a healthier lifestyle. PMC has further organized a community walk on December 11, starting from Nagarkar Taleem Chowk to Garud Ganapati Chowk at 10 am.
Shreyas Vange
