Pune –
The city’s traffic congestion has long been a pressing issue, prompting leaders to seek innovative solutions. Amidst this challenge, Shiv Sena City Chief Pramod Nana Bhangire has taken a proactive stance by proposing a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing traffic woes that have marred Solapur and Saswad roads.
The construction of the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj flyovers at Gadital aimed to alleviate the traffic bottleneck stretching from Hadapsar Gadital Chowk to Solapur Road, as well as the route towards Saswad. However, the recent extension bridge’s addition atop the original structure has regrettably led to a weakening of both bridges. Consequently, the need for frequent closures and repairs has only exacerbated the situation.
In light of this predicament, Pramod Nana Bhangire, a prominent figure within the Shiv Sena, has directed his efforts towards finding a lasting and effective solution. He has penned a letter to Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, suggesting the construction of a new flyover between Fatima Nagar and Manjri Phata. This proposed flyover aims to serve as a strategic measure to tackle the persistent traffic congestion on Solapur Road.
National Highway No. 65, a vital artery connecting Pune to Machchali Pattanam, traverses multiple states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. Unfortunately, the bridge along this route has exhibited vulnerabilities, leading to frequent closures for repairs and consequently causing recurring traffic gridlocks.
Bhangire’s proposal aligns with the urgent need to address this critical issue. He highlights the affirmative response received from Nitin Gadkari, who has expressed a willingness to address the matter promptly. In light of the observed damages sustained by the Hadapsar bridge due to the introduction of the Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram flyovers, Bhangire has urged for the replacement of the flyover with a bridge as a potential solution.
The deteriorated girder bearing of the Hadapsar bridge has necessitated its closure. Furthermore, concerns regarding its low height have raised safety issues, particularly for heavy vehicles that frequently collide with the bridge’s pillars. To mitigate these risks, temporary cement barricades have been positioned at intervals along the pillars. However, these barricades have inadvertently hindered the smooth flow of vehicular traffic along the road.
In the face of these challenges, Pramod Bhangire’s proposition for a new flyover between Fatima Nagar and Manjri Phata stands as a forward-thinking measure to address the persistent traffic concerns. As Pune navigates the complexities of urban traffic management, proactive initiatives like these reflect a commitment to finding sustainable solutions that will ultimately enhance the city’s transportation infrastructure and improve the lives of its residents.
