Pune: Laxmi Road transformed into a vibrant pedestrian-friendly zone on Wednesday (December 11) as the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) hosted its "Walkway" event to mark Pedestrian Day.

The initiative, designed to promote walking and the use of public transport, turned the usually vehicle-dense street into a bustling space for families, shoppers, and activity enthusiasts.

A Festive Atmosphere

The road was adorned with colorful archways and mesmerizing rangoli art by the National Academy of Arts. Throughout the day, the 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. event saw residents throng the street, which offered a plethora of activities, shopping opportunities, and food stalls.

Children reveled in games like snakes and ladders, and educational exhibits provided insights into Maharashtra and other cities through maps. Meanwhile, traffic police engaged young minds with a fun introduction to traffic signs, fostering awareness.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices

The "Walkway" initiative also highlighted sustainable mobility, with citizens enjoying electric bicycle rides and exploring alternatives to private vehicle usage. Public transport systems like PMPML buses and the Metro were promoted as part of the campaign.

Shopping and Food Galore

Women and young girls were drawn to stalls featuring beauty products and clothing, while the aroma of street food attracted families to snack on pani puri and bhel puri. The event emphasized how vibrant and engaging pedestrian spaces can be for urban residents.

Homemaker Savita Bhosale summed up the experience, saying, “We usually shop at Tulshibaug, but this time, shopping on Laxmi Road was a unique experience. My children enjoyed the games, and walking on the vehicle-free street was refreshing.”

The event provided a glimpse of how urban spaces can be reimagined to prioritize pedestrians, promote sustainability, and foster community engagement.