Pune Cracks Down on Traffic Chaos: Over 900 Manpower To Be Added
Mrudula Narale Pune, April 8: Amid rising concerns over worsening traffic congestion, frequent road accidents, and increasing pressure on urban infrastructure, the Pune Police Commissionerate has proposed a major expansion of its traffic branch. The plan, which follows recent discussions in the state legislative assembly, awaits final approval from the State Home Department. DCP Traffic, Amol Zende, while speaking to NewsDotz, affirmed that a comprehensive proposal to strengthen the traffic department has been submitted by the Pune Police Commissionerate to the government.”
The proposal includes the addition of over 900 police personnel and the appointment of two senior officers — an Additional Commissioner of Police and a Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) — solely dedicated to traffic management. This move is aimed at strengthening enforcement, ensuring smoother traffic flow, and improving commuter safety.
Currently, Pune’s police jurisdiction is divided into five zones, each overseen by a DCP. However, the city’s rapid expansion and increasing vehicular density have prompted authorities to reassess existing systems. One of the most critical challenges faced by traffic police is the shortage of personnel at key junctions, hampering traffic regulation, especially during peak hours and the monsoon season, when waterlogging often brings parts of the city to a standstill.
Earlier attempts to fill the gap by recruiting Home Guards fell short due to insufficient response. Officials are now focusing on a dual strategy: boosting manpower and investing in technological upgrades.
As per sources, the sanctioned strength of the Pune Traffic Branch currently stands at 1,054, but only 850 personnel are on active duty. With 37 traffic divisions under the Commissionerate’s jurisdiction, the proposed reinforcements are expected to significantly improve enforcement capabilities and reduce congestion.
Authorities stressed the importance of streamlined planning and resource allocation to manage Pune’s traffic more effectively, ensuring safety and smoother commutes for lakhs of daily road users.
