As Pune gears up for the vibrant and much-awaited Dahi Handi celebrations, stringent security measures and traffic diversions have been put in place to ensure the safety and smooth flow of festivities in the city. This annual event, marked by enthusiasm and fervor, is expected to draw large crowds to central Pune, particularly the Mandai area. To accommodate the celebrations, temporary traffic adjustments have been made, primarily impacting the Shivaji Road and Mandai regions.
The Dahi Handi festival holds profound cultural significance in the central region, attracting throngs of people to iconic locations such as Mandai, Belbag Chowk, and Hutatma Babu Genu Chowk. Pune’s residents and visitors from its suburbs flock to these areas in great numbers, making traffic management a critical consideration.
Starting from Thursday afternoon, traffic diversions are expected to be in place, affecting key roadways such as Shivaji Road, Laxmi Road, Bajirao Road, and Tilak Road. Alternative routes have been designated to redirect traffic, and traffic branch personnel will be deployed at crucial intersections, such as the Sahitya Parishad Chowk on Tilak Road, where the Dahi Handi celebrations are scheduled to take place.
Here are some of the key traffic changes for the central area:
- Shivaji Road to Swargate: Motorists traveling from Shivaji Road to Swargate will be rerouted via Jungli Maharaj Road.
- Barve Chowk to Deccan Gymkhana or Tilak Road: For those traveling from Barve Chowk (Modern Cafe Chowk), options include Deccan Gymkhana, Tilak Road, or Shastri Road.
- Puram Chowk to Shivaji Nagar: Motorists heading to Shivaji Nagar from Puram Chowk on Bajirao Road should utilize Tilak Chowk.
In the Mandai area, the following traffic changes will be implemented:
- Appa Balwant Chowk: Traffic bound for Appa Balwant Chowk will be redirected through Budhwar Chowk.
- Bajirao Road: Motorists traveling from Appa Balwant Chowk to Budhwar Chowk should use Bajirao Road for their commute.
- Rameshwar Chowk to Shanipar Chowk: The road between Rameshwar Chowk and Shanipar Chowk in Mandai will be temporarily closed to traffic, necessitating the use of alternate routes.
- PMPML Buses to Swargate: PMPML buses traveling to Swargate from Shivaji Road will be rerouted through Tilak Road.
Sandeep Singh Gill, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone I), emphasized the importance of security during this festive occasion. To ensure safety, a significant police presence will be maintained in the Mandai area. Organizers have been advised to adhere to High Court regulations regarding the use of loudspeakers, with a strict curfew at 10 PM. Additionally, organizers have been directed to install CCTV cameras to enhance security and prevent potential incidents of theft.
With these proactive measures in place, Pune residents and visitors can look forward to a joyous and secure Dahi Handi celebration in the heart of the city.
