Lonavala, a popular tourist destination nestled between Mumbai and Pune, is grappling with severe traffic congestion due to a surge in visitors during the rainy season. To mitigate this issue, the Lonavala traffic department has introduced temporary traffic changes and deployed additional police forces to manage the situation effectively.
Traffic Congestion and Tourist Influx
The influx of tourists peaks during consecutive holidays, leading to significant congestion, particularly on weekends. The roads leading to Bhushi Dam, a major attraction in Lonavala, often experience severe gridlocks as tourists navigate the area.
Traffic Management Measures
Lonavala Sub-Divisional Police Officer Satyasai Karthik has announced several measures to address the traffic disruptions caused by the tourist surge. Approximately 100 additional police personnel from Pune Rural Police Headquarters, along with Home Guard personnel, have been mobilized to manage traffic flow. A team of police volunteers will support these efforts, with clear instructions provided to ensure effective coordination.
Traffic Diversions
To alleviate congestion, vehicles heading towards Pune from the internal road near Ambarwadi Ganapati Temple will be diverted via Indiranagar, Tungarli, and the Narayan Dham police post. Motorists from Bhushi Dam are advised to use the expressway route via Sinhagad College, passing through Kailash Nagar Crematorium, Hanuman Hill, and Kusgaon Ganpati Temple. Those traveling towards Mumbai should follow the route via Ryewood Police Post, Khandala Gate No. 30, and the Railway Gate near Apollo Garage.
Traffic Control Room and Communication
A traffic management control room has been established at Kumar Police Chowky, with loudspeakers installed at key junctions for real-time updates. Additionally, a one-way road system has been implemented between Bhangarwadi Indrayani Bridge and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk to ease congestion in Lonavala Bazar.
Parking Regulations
Parking arrangements have been structured according to even and odd dates to streamline parking in the city. Sub-Divisional Police Officer Satyasai Karthik has stated that strict actions will be taken against parking violations. Motorists traveling towards Bhushi Dam are strictly prohibited from halting their vehicles on the roads where designated parking spaces are available. It is mandated that vehicles be parked only in these designated areas. Furthermore, parking in a manner that obstructs traffic flow in the Khandala Rajmachi Point area is prohibited.
Compliance and Enforcement
Tourists are urged to adhere to all directives issued by the police. SDPO Karthik issued a stern warning, stating, “A joint team comprising personnel from Lonavala city and rural police stations will be deployed to take immediate action against any unruly behavior.”
