Pune, February 27, 2024: The residents of Khadki and surrounding areas are urging authorities to reopen the 2.8-kilometer stretch of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Road for two-way traffic. The ongoing metro construction in the region has restricted access to this particular stretch for the last three and a half years, causing inconvenience to residents, students, and businesses in Khadki, Range Hills, Bopodi, Dapodi, Vishrantwadi, and nearby areas.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has cited ongoing construction work as the reason for the closure of the former Mumbai-Pune Highway near Jai Hind Theatre, making it inaccessible for two-way traffic. Motorists traveling from Bopodi to Wakdewadi are advised to take the alternative route via Ambedkar Road in Khadki until the 2.8-kilometer stretch is reopened.
A delegation from Maha Vikas Aghadi Khadki Cantonment Board, comprising representatives from various political parties, entrepreneurs, residents, and social workers, recently approached Vikas Dhakane, the additional commissioner of PMC, to request the reopening of the stretch. Mohan Joshi, vice president of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, directed the group and warned of organizing a protest and road blockade if PMC does not permit two-way traffic on the route by March 15.
Concerns have been raised about the safety of students at All Saints School due to the traffic congestion and chaos in the area. Parents are anxious about the challenges their children face while navigating through heavy traffic, prompting the demand for a swift resolution to the issue.
A senior PMC official assured that the old Mumbai-Pune Highway would be fully operational for two-way traffic once the ongoing construction work is completed. Delays related to land acquisition and approvals have hindered progress, with only a small portion of the road remaining to be developed.
