Pune, 22 April 2026: The Pune Traffic Police have seized more than 6,000 vehicles over the past 10 days as part of a special enforcement drive targeting abandoned, unused, and illegally parked vehicles across the city. The initiative is aimed at reducing congestion, improving road safety, and reclaiming public spaces.
The drive was launched following a rise in complaints from citizens about vehicles being left unattended for long periods on busy roads, internal lanes, and near commercial areas. Authorities said such vehicles occupy valuable parking space, create traffic bottlenecks, and pose safety risks.
Officials explained that the process is being carried out in a structured manner. Vehicles identified as abandoned or violating parking rules are first tagged with a notice, giving owners a limited time to remove them before further action is taken.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Himmat Jadhav said that a notice is placed on such vehicles, and if the owner does not remove it within 24 hours, it is treated as abandoned and seized. He added that the goal is not just enforcement but to keep public roads accessible and safe for everyone.
In some cases, depending on the situation, authorities may allow up to 48 hours or even seven days for compliance. However, vehicles that obstruct traffic or pose immediate risks are removed without delay.
Once seized, the vehicles are taken to designated yards and fines are imposed based on the type of violation. If owners fail to claim them despite repeated notices, the police begin the legal process to auction the vehicles.
Officials also highlighted that abandoned vehicles often become dumping spots for waste and may be misused for illegal activities. In residential areas, they can block emergency access routes, causing inconvenience to residents and emergency services.
The drive is being carried out across multiple parts of the city, especially in high-density areas facing chronic parking issues. Authorities said the campaign is part of a broader effort to improve traffic discipline and ensure better use of limited road space.
The traffic police have appealed to citizens to cooperate by removing unused vehicles and following parking rules. Residents have also been encouraged to report abandoned vehicles through official channels.
