In a first, Pimpri-Chinchwad gears up for ‘vehicle-free day’ this weekend

Pimpri-Chinchwad has approximately 2.34 million vehicle registrations, while its population is estimated to be between 2.5 million and 3 million. This means there is nearly one vehicle for every person. With the rapid increase in vehicle numbers, there is an urgent need to promote alternative and sustainable modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, and public transportation, said officials.

The Pimpri market area was specifically chosen for this initiative because nearly 8,000 citizens visit the market every hour, making it one of the busiest places in the city, visited by both vehicles and pedestrians. The goal of the vehicle-free day is to reclaim valuable road space for pedestrians, allowing them to walk, run, and play freely while enjoying the market area. The market area is also the third most polluted region in the city with average PM2.5 levels in 2024, at 45.9 µg/m³ in Savta Mali Nagar (nearest pollution monitoring station), officials said.

The PCMC chief discussed the importance of effective community and stakeholder engagement. He explained that the plan was developed in consultation with local residents. Several meetings were held with local market associations to gather their opinions on the idea of a vehicle-free day. The shopkeepers have given their preliminary approval to conduct a two-day trial.

What to expect and how to reach

On the day of the event, from 9 am onwards, all vehicle movement will be stopped from Maharshi Valmiki Chowk to Shagun Chowk and Shagun Chowk to Sai Chowk. In between, the critical junction of Shagun Chowk will be partially open for traffic movement, where only right-turning traffic will be allowed for all vehicles approaching from the flyover. Provisions for parking for the visitors have been provided at the nearby parking locations, officials said.

PMPML and Metro shuttle services will also be provided. The nearest metro station to reach the venue is PCMC Bhavan Metro station. Those using buses can get off at Lal Mandir, PCMC vegetable market, Bhat Nagar bus stops, the PCMC administration said.

“This is a trial being conducted for two days; we expect people to cooperate and experience this unique and important road safety initiative next week. We urge all citizens to avail public transport options to reach the venue,” said Bapu Vitthal Bangar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), traffic.

The event will also feature a pedestrian-friendly market experience with ample space to walk, sit, and explore, informative stalls on sustainable mobility and road safety, games and interactive activities for all age groups like Zumba, live music, food stalls, etc.

Business and emergency arrangements

Local businesses along the route will continue to operate, and alternative transport arrangements will be made in advance to move goods. Additional mobile toilets, seating, and drinking water supplies will be provided. Emergency services will remain accessible throughout the event.