As Pune grapples with escalating traffic congestion on major roadways, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has unveiled strategic plans to construct flyovers and grade separators at critical intersections. These infrastructure projects aim to alleviate traffic woes in areas such as Yerwada, Dandekar Bridge Chowk, Bindu Madhav Thackeray Chowk, and Shastrinagar Chowk. The PMC has initiated the process of appointing consultants for these projects, with construction expected to commence in the upcoming year.
The burgeoning number of vehicles on Pune’s roads has rendered them insufficient to meet the ever-growing demand. Currently, traversing a mere 10 kilometers can take a minimum of half an hour during peak traffic times. In response to this mounting challenge, the city is exploring alternative routes and improved traffic management through the construction of vital intersections, flyovers, and level crossings. Several ongoing projects in Pune encompass the Rajaram Bridge to Funtime Theater on Sinhgad Road, a flyover at University Chowk on Ganeshkhind Road, and the expansion and level separation of Katraj-Kondhwa Road.
The Sinhagad Road flyover project has already made significant progress, with completion at 50 percent. Dandekar Bridge Chowk, a pivotal traffic convergence point for areas like Deccan, Swargate, Katraj, and Sinhgad Roads, underscores its significance in the city’s traffic management plans. Furthermore, Pune is actively working on the proposed Khadakwasla to Hadapsar-Kharadi metro line, necessitating careful coordination between metro pillar placement and the construction of flyovers or level crossings. To facilitate this coordination, the PMC has initiated discussions with Mahametro.
Shastrinagar Chowk is another area plagued by traffic congestion, particularly due to the confusion surrounding right turns from Nagar Road towards Golf Club Chowk. A comprehensive study of this intersection will determine whether a flyover, level separator, or a combination of both is the most viable solution.
Sangamwadi Road, which connects Shivajinagar to Nagar Road, the Airport, and Vishrantwadi, is a vital route that witnesses heavy traffic flow. During peak hours, traffic signals often lead to frustrating delays for motorists. Recognizing the potential for future congestion, the PMC is proactively planning the construction of a flyover or level divider to establish an alternative route.
The PMC has initiated the tendering process for appointing consultants for these three critical intersections. A decision is expected within the next two months. A budget allocation of Rs 40 crore has been earmarked for this work in the 2023-24 fiscal year. The appointed consultant will conduct a comprehensive traffic survey of all three intersections, considering available space and determining the most suitable flyovers or level separators for construction.
Ajay Vaise, Executive Engineer of the Project Department, anticipates that construction will commence in the coming year, based on the time required for these preparatory steps. The strategic flyover plan aims to streamline traffic, reduce congestion, and improve the overall commuting experience for Pune’s residents.
