Viral video from Pune shows foreigner blocking two-wheelers on footpath: 'It's a shame'

Rakshak Chowk, located in the Pimpri-Chinchwad region, is a busy intersection that frequently experiences congestion.

A video circulating widely on social media appeared to show two foreign nationals stopping two-wheeler riders who were driving on footpaths in Pune, drawing renewed attention to traffic violations and pedestrian safety in the city.

The incident reportedly took place at Rakshak Chowk in the Pimple Nilakh area of Pune, Maharashtra, according to Pune Mirror. The footage showed the individuals positioning themselves on the footpath and physically blocking riders who attempted to bypass traffic congestion by using the pedestrian walkway. The riders were then directed back on to the main road.

In the short clip, one of the men was seen standing in front of an approaching two-wheeler and gesturing for the rider to stop, while another accompanied him and reinforced the message. “This path is for walking, not for riding vehicles,” the individuals could be heard saying as they urged riders to follow traffic rules.

Rakshak Chowk, located in the Pimpri-Chinchwad region, is a busy intersection that frequently experiences congestion. To avoid delays, some riders were seen diverting on to the footpath, despite it being designated exclusively for pedestrians.

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The video rapidly gained traction across platforms, prompting a flood of responses from users both within Pune and beyond. Several comments reflected embarrassment and frustration over civic behaviour. One user wrote, “People are so shameless that they don't feel anything for this. They bring this attitude to other countries.”

Another commented, “It’s a shame that we need foreigners to come and teach us civility. I have repeatedly said that we need to change our primary education syllabus and add civics and civility.”

Some users used the moment to highlight broader infrastructure and enforcement issues. “In India, footpaths are made for everything else except for pedestrian use. Cyclists, two wheelers, car parking, tea stalls, govt hoardings, kiosks, fruit sellers, barbers, demonstrators, worshippers, loiterers, and more,” one comment read.

Others praised the intervention. “Wow! Foreigners had to step in to teach our riders that footpaths are for walking, not bikes. In Pimpri-Chinchwad, this highlights the need for improved civic sense and adherence to traffic rules. Great job by them for caring about road safety! We Indians should learn and do the same every day,” another user wrote.