Pune: Residents Call For Safety Measures On Porwal Road Following Several Accidents 

Manasi Patil 

In a recent incident on Porwal Road, a pregnant househelp was critically injured after being hit by a motorcycle. This unfortunate event has reignited concerns among residents about the lack of effective traffic management and safety measures in the area. 

This happened when a 3-4 months old pregnant woman was going to drop her child to the school bus and a service provider biker who was riding very recklessly dashed into her. The vehicle was damaged and the boy was admitted as well. The woman was admitted in the ICU and got 25 stitches and got discharged a day before from the hospital. 

Mandar Kulkarni , member of Lohegaom Residents Welfare Association and a resident staying in the locality said, “there are several challenges faced on the road such as no speed breaker, lack of barricades. The size of the road is only 20 foot which is considered as the main road for several daily commuters including college students and action should be taken immediately against the same to widen it or resurface it.” 

This highlights a recurring issue of accidents along Porwal Road and neighboring areas like Bharat Mata Road, Sathewasti, and DY Patil Road. 

Residents have long voiced their frustrations over the rising number of accidents, exacerbated by factors such as speeding vehicles, cement mixer trucks, and irregular parking. Despite numerous appeals to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and traffic police, little action has been taken, prompting locals to consider a ‘No Infra, No Vote’ campaign.

Encroachments on footpaths by vendors and illegally parked vehicles further worsen traffic congestion, especially during evening rush hours. The situation is compounded by noise pollution from modified motorcycle silencers, adding to the chaos and endangering pedestrians and residents alike.

Another resident of Khese Park compared that the road from 509 Chowk to Khese Park is almost single lane. So our problems start from this Chowk. Further they aggravate. PMC must look into resolving our issues on priority.  Even after having an airport closeby the surrounding areas lack basic facilities. We also want police patrolling in the area. 

In response to the recent accident, the motorcyclist involved has taken responsibility and agreed to cover the medical expenses. However, residents emphasize the need for preemptive measures such as speed breakers and enhanced pedestrian crossings to prevent future incidents.

Residents and authorities alike are urged to prioritize road safety initiatives to protect vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and differently-abled individuals. The community stresses the importance of responsible driving and accountability from authorities to ensure safer roads for everyone.