Pune: Divisional commissioner Sheetal Teli-Ugale on Thursday directed authorities to prioritize immediate measures for easing traffic congestion across Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and the Pune Metropolitan Region, while simultaneously accelerating long-term mobility projects.
PUMTA Review Meeting
Chairing a review meeting of the Pune Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (PUMTA), Teli-Ugale stated that major projects, including the proposed underground tunnel network, the high capacity mass transit route (HCMTR), and the inner ring road, have received approval for forming a special purpose vehicle (SPV). However, given the time required for planning, design, and preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs), efforts must be intensified to advance these projects.
Short-Term Solutions
She emphasized that authorities should focus on maximizing the use and capacity of existing transport infrastructure until large projects are implemented. To identify short-term solutions, she directed the formation of a sub-committee comprising representatives from civic bodies, traffic police, railways, Maha Metro, PMPML, MSRTC, and the transport department. The panel will submit its recommendations at the next PUMTA meeting.
Last-Mile Connectivity
Teli-Ugale also stressed the need for better last-mile connectivity to boost the use of Metro and railway services. She said adequate PMPML bus services and autorickshaw facilities should be made available at stations to help commuters reach their destinations seamlessly.
Maha Metro MD's Suggestions
Maha Metro managing director Shravan Hardikar, who attended the meeting virtually, said the proposed tunnel network should not be restricted to private vehicles and must allow public transport vehicles, which would help improve traffic flow and encourage greater use of mass transit.
PMRDA Commissioner's Call
PMRDA commissioner Abhijit Chaudhari said traffic bottlenecks and congestion-prone stretches should be prioritized while planning mobility projects. He also called for coordinated planning among Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, and PMRDA to ensure an integrated transport network across the metropolitan region.
Traffic Data Sharing
Additional commissioner of police Manoj Patil, who made a presentation on traffic management, said sharing traffic-related data among implementing agencies would help authorities devise more effective congestion-mitigation measures.
Railway Upgrades
Railway officials informed PUMTA officials that six new platforms have been proposed at Pune railway station, while the length of the existing six platforms will be increased to enhance rail capacity.
Attendees
The meeting was attended by senior officials from PMRDA, PMC, NHAI, PCMC, railways, MSRTC, PMPML, MIDC, and other transport and planning agencies.
