Traffic Park: Helping children get on the right track

The chaotic city traffic and frequent road accidents are a matter of grave concern to Pune citizens.
Even more alarming is the number of youngsters who are involved in these, often, fatal accidents. Tragically, most of these
occurred due to rash and negligent driving with blatant disregard for traffic rules.
So grievous is the problem that the Traffic Control branch of the City police has taken it upon themselves to remedy the situation. They have, in association with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), come up with an absolutely refreshing and unique solution. Catch and teach them young is their Plan of Action. The Traffic Police have actually designed a traffic park in Model Colony in the Municipal Corporation Park. The park has been modeled to resemble any busy thoroughfare complete with signals, speed breakers, zebra crossing, center line marking, even a footpath with railings.

As a lot of children in the city go to school on cycles, the traffic police have initiated traffic lessons for children. Every Friday, children attend these classes in batches. At these sessions, a sense of responsibility is ingrained in the child. Each and every traffic rule is explained at length. The 18 bicycles donated by the Lions Club have also helped kids to take practical lessons in and around the park, such as slowing down  as a speed breaker approaches, stopping at a red light etc. Presently, the children who attend these sessions are from Municipal schools.

This park is open to the public. With all traffic sign boards concentrated in one area, parents could instruct their wards while taking a walk in the park.

Address: Chittranjan  Vatika, Hare Krishna Path, Model Colony, Pune 411 016

Text: Shabari Shetty
Photos: Harikrishna