Pune, August 12th, 2023: The much-awaited inauguration of the Chandni Chowk flyover is finally scheduled to take place today, with Union Minister of Highway and Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, officiating the event. This significant infrastructure project aims to alleviate the long-standing issue of traffic congestion on the bustling Pune-Bengaluru Highway. Notably, the construction of the flyover was initiated five years ago, and its completion is expected to bring relief to commuters traversing this vital route.
The inauguration holds particular significance due to the pressing need to address the heavy traffic congestion that plagues the Pune-Bengaluru Highway, specifically the Chandni Chowk area. Even the Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, experienced the brunt of this congestion firsthand last year, when his convoy was unexpectedly held up for more than 15 minutes in this very spot.
The foundation stone for this flyover project was laid by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari back in 2018. However, the endeavor encountered substantial delays over the years, primarily attributed to challenges such as land acquisition hurdles. Despite these setbacks, the government has invested approximately Rs 1,000 Crore into the project, with funding contributions coming from both the central and state governments.
Chandni Chowk stands as a pivotal junction that facilitates connectivity between NDA, Pashan, Bavdhan, Mulshi Road, Paud Road, and the city via the Mumbai-Bengaluru Highway. The strategic importance of this route extends beyond regional connectivity, as it serves as a vital conduit for IT professionals commuting to the Hinjewadi IT Park. Initially slated for completion in 2021, the project encountered unavoidable delays that necessitated the extension of the deadline to 2023.
Comprising four bridges and an underpass, the flyover is designed to streamline traffic flow. Additionally, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has thoughtfully incorporated service roads alongside the main highway to further enhance overall road infrastructure and ease vehicular movement.
