Pune: Pimpri-Chinchwad to Observe ‘Vehicle-Free Day’ This Weekend to Promote Sustainable Transport
In a groundbreaking move, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is set to implement a ‘vehicle-free day’ on March 8-9 (Saturday and Sunday) from 8 AM to 9 PM in the Pimpri market area, spanning from Sai Chowk to Maharshi Valmiki Chowk. The initiative aims to encourage walking, cycling, and public transport, making the city more pedestrian-friendly and reducing pollution levels.
A Step Towards a Greener City
Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh emphasized the importance of prioritizing people over vehicles, calling the initiative an opportunity to reimagine urban streets. With 2.34 million registered vehicles and a population of 2.5-3 million, Pimpri-Chinchwad faces rising congestion and pollution. Officials noted that the Pimpri market area, which welcomes nearly 8,000 visitors per hour, was chosen due to its heavy footfall and pollution levels (PM2.5 average of 45.9 µg/m³ in 2024).
The PCMC collaborated with local residents and market associations, gaining preliminary approval from shopkeepers for this two-day trial.
Traffic Diversions and Transport Arrangements
From 9 AM onwards, all vehicles will be prohibited on:
- Maharshi Valmiki Chowk to Shagun Chowk
- Shagun Chowk to Sai Chowk
However, Shagun Chowk will allow partial right-turn traffic movement from the flyover. Parking spaces have been designated nearby, and PMPML and Metro shuttle services will be available. The nearest metro station is PCMC Bhavan Metro, and buses will stop at Lal Mandir, PCMC vegetable market, and Bhat Nagar.
Exciting Activities and Business Continuity
The event will transform the market into a pedestrian-friendly zone, offering:
✅ Informative stalls on road safety & sustainable transport
✅ Games, live music, and interactive activities
✅ Zumba sessions & food stalls
Despite the restrictions, local businesses will remain open, with alternative transport options for goods movement. Mobile toilets, seating, and drinking water will be provided, and emergency services will remain fully accessible.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Bapu Vitthal Bangar urged citizens to support the trial and use public transport. “This is a unique initiative, and we hope people will cooperate and experience the benefits of a vehicle-free environment,” he stated.
