Pune Airport to Implement Time-Limited Pick-Up System to Combat Congestion
Pune airport authorities are set to introduce a time-bound entry system for private vehicles picking up passengers, with an expected rollout by the end of February or March this year. This initiative aims to address persistent traffic congestion issues at the terminal building, particularly during peak evening hours.
System Details and Implementation Timeline
According to Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke, the system is awaiting final approval from headquarters before implementation. Private vehicles will be allocated a strict waiting period of 13 to 15 minutes in front of the arrivals area to collect incoming flyers. Vehicles exceeding this time limit will face substantial fines.
"The system will help to curb the congestion that takes place at the airport's terminal building, particularly during late evening hours," explained an official. "A system is being prepared as per which the time a private vehicle enters the building for a pick-up will be recorded, and the same matched as the vehicle exits."
Current Traffic Situation and Challenges
Currently, both private and commercial vehicles, such as cabs and autorickshaws, are permitted to drop off passengers at the airport. However, only private vehicles are allowed to pick up passengers directly from the premises. Those needing commercial transport must proceed to the AeroMall, which has introduced a counter near the arrival area for urgent pick-up requests to expedite the process.
Pune airport handles approximately 17,500 arriving passengers daily, with around 11,000 to 12,000 private vehicles entering for pick-ups and drop-offs. Additionally, an average of 5,000 to 6,000 cabs access the airport each day.
Stakeholder Perspectives and Concerns
YS Rajput, vice-president of the AeroMall, highlighted ongoing discussions about the time-bound system. "For now, private vehicles take their own time when they park in front of the arrivals area," he said. "This is the case even for vehicles that have come to the terminal building to drop off passengers, like friends, relatives, associates, etc. They just stay parked, even when there is a rule that drop-offs should be done fast. The delay affects the circulating area, leading to congestion. The crowding of vehicles near the arrivals area spills towards the departures side, too, escalating the problem."
Frequent flyers have expressed concerns about the current waiting times. Suryakant Dixit, a doctor and regular traveler, noted, "There have been many instances when the arrival area is choked by a large number of private vehicles, making manoeuvring very difficult. The parking time given shouldn't be more than seven or eight minutes per vehicle, or else the congestion will just increase and become unmanageable."
Nishant Kumar, an IT professional and frequent flyer, added, "Mainly during late evening hours outside the airport, many private vehicles can be seen standing by the roadside. This makes the already narrow road even more difficult to navigate. At night, there are no police around, and everyone takes advantage of the situation."
Expert Recommendations for Long-Term Solutions
Aviation analyst Dhairyashil Vandekar emphasized the need for collaboration between airport authorities and police to tackle broader traffic issues. "Both agencies must coordinate and resolve this issue. If approach roads to the airport are not free from congestion, flyers will suffer, and there is a chance of missing flights. Night-time patrolling by authorities is the need of the hour," he advised.
The new time-bound system represents a proactive step by Pune airport to improve traffic flow and enhance passenger experience, with further measures potentially required to address surrounding road congestion.
