This figure has been arrived at after taking into consideration the fact that each traffic junction needs eight pedestrian signals, with two signals on each side of the road, as per the prescribed norms of the Indian Road Congress. Of the 30-40 per cent installed signals, the survey revealed that only 15 per cent were in working condition.

Makrand Mhaiskar from SPTM said, “After the study of pedestrian signals, conducted by SPTM at several chowks last year, PMC, traffic branch of Pune Police and SPTM together made changes in the signal cycle at 26 major chowks so that pedestrians get adequate time to cross the road. After fixing the timing, the next step is to have working pedestrian signals at these chowks. We have again written to the civic body to find out about the status of the project as part of our Save 100 Lives initiative.”

S R Pophale from the traffic planning department of PMC said, “We have received the list of 26 chowks. Inspection of all the chowks is already on. Most of the signals are non-functional due to cable and Light Emitting Diode (LED) faults. The repair work is expected to start by this week.”

SPTM had planned mass rallies to mark a protest against the lack of maintenance of pedestrian signals. However after being assured by the civic body officials, the mass road crossing rallies have been put on hold for now.

Harshad Abhyankar, founder member, SPTM said, “From the accident statistics last year, it was found that 33 per cent of fatalities were those of pedestrians. Having the signals in place and ensuring that they are working is the first step towards ensuring safety of pedestrians.”

The 26 chowks listed by SPTM are Appa Balwant, Kunte, Ganjawe, Bahirat Putala, Bal Gandharva, Shanipar, Sawarkar Putala, Senadutta chowki, Swargate, RTO, Engineering College, Jehangir hospital, Maldhakka, Shahir Amar Shaikh, Kalyani Nagar, Koregaon Park, Gunjan, Parnakuti, Seven Loves, Khanduji Baba, Nal stop, Bremen, Pune University, Vetal Maharaj, S G Barve, Simla office chowks.