How do I travel safely at night in Pune

Getting a plan before you travel, selecting a safe mode of transportation, walking in lighted areas or having a phone to call for help are all things to help navigate Pune at night. There are all sorts of busy roads and some roads not suitable late at night such as Baner Road, FC Road and JM Road. Good planning helps.

Always plan ahead and select well-lit and busy roads if at all possible

A safe overnight drive begins before you start out on the road. Plan your trip, estimated time of arrival and transportation. Don't use shortcuts you don't know even if they appear to be quick. Generally roads with heavy traffic are safer to drive on than on unlit roads, particularly in the absence of a company.

Pune has few areas which are very busy after dark to keep the streets of Pune filled with activity, shops, restaurants, offices, transport services etc. Traffic flow in Baner, Aundh, Kothrud, Viman Nagar, Koregaon Park and Hinjawadi can change from day to day, and hour to hour.

When traveling from the city centre, make sure it's a good road before heading out. The evening is busy in FC Road, JM Road, Shivajinagar and Deccan, however, traffic and pedestrian movement might be lighter in the evening hours. Note the address of the destination, not memory.

If you are going to travel a long distance, make sure that you let someone know your location and your return time. Notify Update if plans change. This is a simple act which allows another person to have a basic idea of where you are.

A well-organized system of transportation, and respectful driving around stations, parking and streets that are less noisy

App-based taxis or autos can be used for late night journeys. Verify registration number and driver information displayed on the app before getting in the car. Avoid getting rides from strangers at train stations, bus stops, bars, etc. where there are large numbers of people around.

Major transportation hubs are Pune Railway Station and Shivajinagar and can become crowded during peak hours. Be aware of how to keep your phone, wallet and bags safe while waiting. Do not go to an isolated corner, stay with other passengers and areas of good lighting.

If self driving, park in a designated and illuminated parking lot. Check the vehicle is locked before you get out. Ensure that those riding motorcycle gear are wearing their helmets and riding safely, despite the absence of heavy traffic. Low-light levels, pedestrians, animals, traffic work, or vehicles driving on the opposite side of the road (or lane change) are some of the risks associated with night driving.

Outside of business hours traffic patterns in Hinjawadi or any other community with a large amount of office parks can be very different. Individual streets can be open and other internal streets are closed. If the area is not familiar, stick to a main route, and use navigation, not taking an unfamiliar route.

It's also important to possess personal awareness. Don't listen to music or other noises at a level that makes it difficult to hear other people. Watch out for traffic when crossing roads and don't start an argument with strangers. Leave if it makes you feel uncomfortable and move to a shop with staff, hotel reception, petrol station, police building or other public venue.

Don't give out personal information like your home address or other private details at random. When meeting someone for the first time, select a public place, and plan a separate way to return home. Clear plans remove pressure and help to make leaving easier when you want to.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1. If you are going to travel at night, what is the safest method for you to do so in Pune?

A. Take advantage of trusted means of transport, plan your journey and ride on well lit roadways. Do get your cell phone ready and let someone you know about the time you are going to be there.

Q2. Are they able to use public transport at night in Pune?

A. Route/Time dependent. Check the latest schedule before departure; if service is decreased, please rely on a reliable cab or car service.

Q3. If I don't walk at night on quiet roads in Pune, then what?

A. If you are not familiar with an area, it's prudent to stay away from roads that are not paved. Choose routes to places where there are lights, vehicles and public spaces.

Q4. What are a few precautions to take while traveling in Pune at night using a vehicle?

A. Check vehicle number and driver info prior to entering the vehicle. Where possible share a trip via the app, and don't take hitches from strangers.

Q5. What should I do if I become unsafe during my night trip?

A. Go to a well-known area where there is staff available and call for help. Call local emergency numbers in case of emergency and/or threat.