NMC to roll out Non-Motorised Transport policy to ease traffic, boost safety

Nashik: The civic body is set to roll out a dedicated Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) policy in July this year, aiming to promote safer and convenient travel for pedestrians and cyclists while reducing the city’s growing dependence on motor vehicles.The proposed policy focuses on developing dedicated cycle tracks, wider and obstruction-free footpaths, and safer road-crossing facilities. It will also include measures to improve last-mile connectivity and encourage eco-friendly modes of transport for short-distance travel across the city.Civic officials said the policy is likely to be finalised by the first or second week of next month and unveiled by the first week of July.A senior Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) official, while talking to TOI, said the policy would place strong emphasis on pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure. “The policy will give thrust to cycle tracks for cyclists and walkable footpaths for pedestrians. It will also include provisions for road safety audits, which will be conducted at different stages — before, during and after road construction — and subsequently every two to three years,” the official said.The NMT policy forms part of the civic body’s broader strategy to improve urban mobility by curbing rising congestion, enhancing road safety and reducing pollution levels. Officials said the initiative is being developed in consultation with transport experts, with inputs from citizens and coordination with traffic authorities.The NMC has already taken key steps in this direction by partnering with the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) to prepare a comprehensive mobility framework for the city. Under the five-year collaboration, the institute will assist the civic body in improving traffic systems, redesigning junctions, managing parking, and building safer, more accessible streets.The proposed policy is expected to guide these efforts by promoting the "healthy streets" approach, which prioritises pedestrians, cyclists, and accessible urban spaces over vehicle-centric road designs. It will also integrate inclusive transport planning principles with the objective of transforming streets and strengthening public transport systems.The agency will provide technical assistance for intersection improvements, parking management, and street design. Officials said the policy is being prepared with active public participation, including feedback through online and offline surveys, and coordination with agencies such as traffic police and the regional transport office.The move gains significance as Nashik continues to witness a steady rise in vehicle numbers, leading to increased traffic congestion and road safety concerns.According to the data from the RTO department, the total number of vehicles in Nashik city has increased from 13 lakh in 2019-20 to 16.60 lakh in 2023-24. Of these, 11.57 lakh are two-wheelers, 2.95 lakh four-wheelers, 5,600 taxis, 22,686 auto rickshaws, 5,512 buses, 81,083 cargo vehicles, among others.