In response to the ongoing construction of the Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Metro line by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), a significant change in traffic management has been introduced. Starting from February 20, MSRTC buses will not be allowed on the 2 km stretch between ABIL Junction and Bremen Chowk in Aundh during the peak hours of 8 am to 10.30 pm. This strategic move aims to alleviate traffic congestion on Ganeshkhind Road and the SPPU junction.
The Pune traffic police, in coordination with PMRDA, conducted a trial on Monday to determine the efficacy of the proposed alternative routes for MSRTC buses. According to a senior Pune Traffic Police officer, the buses will now depart from the Pune railway station’s bus terminus, passing through the College of Engineering, Pune, and Shimla Office. The altered route will then take them from Ganeshkhind Road, past Range Hills Corner, turning right onto Sai Chowk, leading to the Khadki railway station. Subsequently, the buses will take a left onto Ambedkar Chowk, reaching Bremen Chowk in Aundh. The reverse route will be followed for passenger pick-ups or drop-offs at the designated location at the PMRDA office.
Previously, MSRTC buses traversed through Aundh’s Bremen Chowk, Senapati Bapat Road junction, Range Hills Corner, and SPPU junction. The new route aims to minimize disruptions caused by ongoing Metro construction and enhance overall traffic management in the area.
The officer mentioned that a trial run with a luxury bus was successfully conducted in the presence of MSRTC representatives. Following the trial, adjustments were made, including shifting barricades at Sai Chowk one meter back to facilitate smooth turns for buses heading towards the Khadki railway station. MSRTC drivers have been duly notified to adhere to the new routes as part of this traffic relief strategy.
