Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched the ambitious ‘Mission 15’ initiative to revamp key roads across the city by undertaking asphalt resurfacing, beautification, and removal of obstructions to improve traffic movement. However, while the project addresses vehicular needs, pedestrian pathways have been left out, leading to criticism from citizens.
Under ‘Mission 15,’ major roads, including Nagar Road, Solapur Road, Baner Road, and Katraj-Dehu Bypass, are undergoing asphalt resurfacing. Despite these efforts, footpaths along VIP routes such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Road and Bajirao Road remain in disrepair, with loose paving blocks, sunken walkways, and hazardous conditions creating challenges for pedestrians.
Traffic Congestion: A Pressing Issue
Pune is grappling with severe traffic congestion, as highlighted by a recent TomTom report ranking the city fourth globally in terms of traffic delays. The average commute of 10 kilometers takes 33 minutes. Poor road infrastructure, broken dividers, encroachments, and illegal parking have compounded the problem, making seamless traffic flow a significant challenge.
Partial Repairs and Budget Transparency
While road repairs have progressed, critics have pointed out inconsistencies in execution. Roads are being resurfaced in segments, leaving some stretches incomplete. Additionally, details regarding the expenditure and tender allocations for ‘Mission 15’ remain unavailable. PMC officials claim that financial details will be compiled post-project completion.
Priorities of ‘Mission 15’
The initiative focuses on asphalt resurfacing, divider repairs, and chamber alignments. However, the exclusion of footpath repairs has drawn public ire, as hazardous pedestrian paths remain a concern.
“Currently, ‘Mission 15’ prioritizes asphalt resurfacing, chamber alignments, and divider repairs. Footpath repairs are not included at this stage. Details of project expenditures will be disclosed upon completion,” said Aniruddha Pawaskar, Head of Road Department, PMC.
