Pune : Delayed survey for parking at metro stations irks commuters

The authorities’ ‘failure’ to include provisions in the project plan for vehicle parking close to Metro stations has disappointed commuters. According to them, last-mile connectivity is a major barrier to using the transportation.

The outcry coincides with new plans being announced by Maha Metro and Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to jointly survey areas close to stations in order to find potential sites for parking lots for commuters who wish to park their own cars and take the Metro.

For the same purpose, the authorities have formed a committee. Regular commuters stated that parking lots ought to be available at least at important stations like Vanaz, PCMC, and Garware College. On two Metro routes, there are currently twenty-three stations in operation; six more are scheduled to open on the Ramwadi route.

According to a Maha Metro official, parking lots will be created in collaboration with PMC close to the Garware College and Vanaz Metro stations. Metro commuters can now park their cars and bikes at stations like Shivajinagar, Civil Court, Nal Stop, and Pune railway station.

Why wasn’t the provision included in the plan when it was being implemented, questioned a Pune civic activist.

Another activist referred to it as a “planning failure” and stated that Pune is known for its two-wheeler culture. Riding a bike to work is common. Strong public transportation is lacking. Nowadays, it’s difficult for people to get to Metro stations, which reduces Metro footfall.