With a packed lineup of activities, the Vehicle-Free Day at Pimpri Market will conclude on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
The much-anticipated Vehicle-Free Day at Pimpri Market was inaugurated on Saturday, March 8, by Mawal MP Shrirang Barne, who praised the initiative and encouraged the PCMC to implement similar pedestrian-friendly measures across the city.The PCMC-organized event spanned 500 meters from Sai Chowk to Maharshi Valmiki Chowk is being held from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Overwhelming participation from citizens
Barne emphasized the increasing traffic jams and environmental issues in cities while speaking at the first event. "PCMC's initiative to hold a vehicle-free day in the busy Pimpri Market is commendable," he remarked. "This solution is a crucial step in lowering traffic problems and improving pedestrian accessibility in marketplaces. We are seeing something uncommon today: kids playing on roadways that were formerly congested with cars. This demonstrates how thoughtfully designed urban mobility initiatives may change public areas. I firmly believe that this project should be extended to other areas of the city," he added.
The first day of the event saw overwhelming participation from citizens, traders, and community groups, who enjoyed a variety of activities. With shaded walkways, seating spaces, and vibrant street art, the market was transformed to provide a comfortable and engaging experience.
A range of programs were held, including zumba and hasya yoga sessions (starting at 7 am), live music, street plays, dance performances, cycling activities, interactive games for children, Women’s Day special events like Khel Paithanicha, quizzes, cultural performances, food stalls, and entertainment zones for families to enjoy.
Event held to assess the feasibility of pedestrianizing key commercial areas
Addressing the gathering, PCMC Additional Commissioner Vijaykumar Khorate emphasised that the primary goal of the event was to assess the feasibility of pedestrianizing key commercial areas. He said, “The purpose of this event is not only to provide a unique experience to citizens but also to collect feedback through surveys and consultations with traders, businesses, and residents. This will help us create a well-informed plan for future pedestrian-friendly developments in Pimpri Chinchwad.”
For the event, the entire market area was beautified and decorated, ensuring visitors enjoyed a pleasant and vehicle-free shopping experience. PCMC aims to promote walking and cycling-friendly spaces while raising awareness about pollution control and sustainable mobility.
The event also witnessed the presence of several PCMC officials, local representatives, and community leaders. It included Additional Commissioner Pradip Jambhale Patil, former corporators Dabbu Aswani, Sandeep Waghere, and Nikita Kadam, Chief Engineer Pramod Ombhase, Deputy Commissioner Sitaram Bahure, and zonal officer Kishor Nanavare.
Along with officers, experts from ITDP, along with traders, students, women’s groups, and environmental activists, also participated in the inaugural program.
By promoting the use of public transportation and allocating parking spaces at HAL Pay and Park, Croma Parking, and Pimpri Market Parking, PCMC made specific plans to control traffic during the event.
The idea was well received by the public, and many said they would like to see more frequent days without cars in crowded business districts. PCMC representatives will record the event's feedback in order to decide on the next course of action for urban mobility planning.
