Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to celebrate Pedestrian Day on December 11, aiming to raise awareness about pedestrian safety and rights. This annual initiative, which Pune is the first city in India to observe, focuses on creating a safer and more accessible environment for pedestrians, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, women, and differently-abled individuals.
Pedestrians are often the most overlooked and vulnerable road users, despite being integral to road safety. Studies show that pedestrians account for a significant portion of road accident fatalities in India. To address this, PMC has been observing Pedestrian Day every year on December 11, and this year marks the fourth consecutive celebration across the entire municipal jurisdiction.
PMC will highlight the importance of pedestrian safety and responsibility towards pedestrian infrastructure on this special day. Key elements such as safe and clean footpaths, clearly marked zebra crossings, pedestrian islands, street lights, traffic signals, and informative signboards are essential for ensuring safety. These facilities represent the fundamental rights of every citizen to move safely across the city.
This year’s celebration will take place along Laxmi Road, one of the busiest streets in Pune, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with a vehicle-free zone from Kante Chowk to Garud Ganpati Chowk. The road will be closed to vehicles, and efforts will be made to beautify the area, creating a pedestrian-friendly space for the day. The move is part of PMC’s initiative to ensure pedestrians can move freely in busy areas without the constant threat of traffic.
Special bicycle services will be provided by PMRCL for people traveling from Kasba and Mandai Metro Stations and Pune Municipal Corporation Metro Station. PMPML will also operate additional bus services to improve connectivity for participants.
Highlights of the Day
Several programs are planned to raise awareness and engage citizens, including:
Road Safety Workshops for Children: United Way Mumbai will organize a workshop to teach children the importance of road safety and pedestrian awareness.
Sensitization Workshop on Accessibility: Ekansh Trust will conduct a session on the accessibility challenges faced by blind, disabled, and differently-abled individuals.
Art Exhibition on Road Safety: Pune Municipal Corporation school students will showcase road safety-themed artwork in an exhibition.
Public Transport and Development Exhibitions: Parisar will organize a panel display focusing on the development of public transport and the old flower markets.
Traffic Planning Exhibitions: ITDP will present a display on the work done by PMC in traffic management and planning.
Grand Rangoli Display: Rang Kala Academy will create a large-scale rangoli to contribute to the festive atmosphere.
Music and Performing Arts: Rasta Sanstha will entertain the public with music and performances.
Air Quality Testing and Cleanliness Displays: The Environmental Department will conduct air quality tests and provide educational content on cleanliness and sustainability.