Pimpri Chinchwad: In a pioneering move towards sustainable urban planning, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has rolled out India’s first pilot project rooted in the ‘15-Minute City’ model in Nigdi Pradhikaran. The concept focuses on creating neighbourhoods where essential services—such as schools, markets, parks, healthcare centres, and public transport facilities—are all reachable within 15 minutes by walking or cycling.
This initiative forms part of the Green Corridor program spearheaded by PCMC’s newly-formed Urban Mobility Department. It aims to enhance last-mile connectivity, with future expansions planned near Bhakti Shakti Metro Station and Akurdi Railway Station.
As a beginning, a 100-metre stretch in Nigdi has been transformed to demonstrate the project’s vision. The upgraded road includes dedicated pedestrian walkways, cycling tracks, rainwater harvesting systems, and lush green zones. The design was developed through public consultations to address community needs and encourage active transport.
The street is now adorned with vibrant murals, benches, shaded areas, and proper lighting—features that not only enhance its aesthetics but also promote safety and usability. While the project was initially met with some scepticism, residents have gradually appreciated the improved urban environment.
International collaboration has been key to the project’s implementation. The Global Designing Cities Initiative (GDCI) partnered with PCMC to provide technical input, design workshops, and on-site training, bringing global best practices into local planning. Sky Duncan, GDCI’s Executive Director, applauded the city’s effort, highlighting its potential to inspire other urban areas globally.
Pune-based Prasanna Desai Architects (PDA), with the assistance of Ashik Jain, led the design, while Pavetech Design Consultants managed the project. BG Shirke Construction Company executed the on-ground work, and ITDP India and CEE contributed technical and social guidance.
PCMC aims to extend this model citywide, focusing on zones where amenities are already within close proximity, allowing for the creation of a 9-kilometre safe pedestrian and cycling network by 2026. According to municipal officials, the broader goal is to offer all citizens safe, convenient, and eco-friendly mobility choices.
The project not only supports sustainable transport but also fosters healthier, inclusive communities. By integrating urban design with environmental goals, PCMC is looking to reshape urban living standards. The pilot is expected to influence future road development strategies and public infrastructure planning across Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Officials affirmed that the Green Corridor initiative and the ‘15-Minute City’ model are designed not merely for transit upgrades, but to bring transformative change to citizens’ everyday experiences—making the city more liveable, connected, and resilient.
