Preface by Mayor Pune is among the most vibrant cities in the country offering a high quality of life, and job and education opportunities, and rich cultural life. The city leadership strives to build upon the heritage of the city, support its people to achieve their fullest potential and contribute to the region and country. Transportation has been a crucial challenge. The city government recognizes that the rapid increase in private motorized modes has led to increased pollution, unsafe road conditions and congestion. The result is ill-health and productive time wasted stuck in traffic. The emissions also contribute to the global burden of greenhouse gases. We recognize that sustainable mobility can contribute greatly to the well-being of the city. The Pune Municipal Corporation has already embarked on a number of initiatives to improve transportation facilities. The aim is to provide a modern, multi-modal transportation system which is safe, convenient and affordable. Pune has been known for its cycling culture. Even though the share of cycling has declined in the past two to three decades, there are a significant number of cyclists in Pune. The time has come to rejuvenate cycling recognizing the multiple benefits it has for the city and for individual cyclists. With a salute to the current cyclists of Pune, and with the hope of attracting many more to shift to cycles, the Pune Municipal Corporation is happy to publish the Comprehensive Bicycle Plan for Pune 2017, as per the approval of the General Body, vide its Resolution No. 693 dated 14 December 2017. With this Plan, the city is committed to invest in the required infrastructure, develop its own capacity to deliver, coordinate with all appropriate agencies, make partnerships and promote the culture of cycling. The aim we set for ourselves, of achieving a mode share of 25% trips by cycle is a high aim, but one which is worth striving for. I call on everybody to join hands with the Pune Municipal Corporation, to support the implementation of the Comprehensive Bicycle Plan for Pune and create conditions for the joy of cycling to be available to Punekars. Smt. Mukta Tilak
5