In the aftermath of a three-day holiday spree, marked by Christmas festivities and the upcoming New Year celebrations, the Pune-Bengaluru Highway near Khambatki Ghat has witnessed a colossal traffic jam. The influx of holidaymakers, many en route to Goa for New Year celebrations, has led to extended queues, resulting in several vehicles experiencing engine breakdowns due to prolonged idling.
Holiday Traffic Chaos: With three consecutive days off on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, a surge of citizens has hit the roads for holiday travels and tourism. Goa, being a popular destination for welcoming the New Year, has attracted a significant number of celebrants, causing a massive traffic snarl in Khambatki Ghat that has persisted for hours.
Engine Breakdowns and Traffic Congestion: The high volume of vehicles, particularly on the Pune-Bangalore route, has intensified the traffic situation since the morning. The famous Khambatki Ghat has become a bottleneck, with queues of vehicles stretching for hours. The slow movement of traffic, coupled with frequent starts and stops, has led to engines overheating, resulting in several vehicles breaking down and exacerbating the congestion.
Police Efforts Amid Frustration: Authorities, including the police, have been working diligently to address the traffic predicament. However, the sheer volume of vehicles and the consequent slow pace have made it challenging to alleviate the situation promptly. Commuters and travelers find themselves frustrated and stranded due to the prolonged queues and engine failures.
Efforts to Resolve the Gridlock: The police continue their efforts to untangle the vehicular gridlock on both sides of Khambatki Ghat. However, the slow-moving traffic and the repeated stops have made it an arduous task to disperse the congestion effectively.
