Traffic ‘Surgical Strike’ on Pune-Nagar Road Eases Congestion, Increases Speed by 19%: Pune Police

Reported by Mubarak Ansari

Viman Nagar, 15th March 202: A series of strategic traffic interventions along Pune-Nagar Road, from Kharadi to Wagholi, have led to a significant reduction in congestion and an increase in vehicle speed by 16 to 19 percent compared to last year. This ‘surgical strike’ on traffic bottlenecks, initiated under Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, has brought much-needed relief to commuters on this key corridor.

Speaking on the initiative, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Amol Zende said, “We have made crucial changes in traffic flow by modifying signal phases, adjusting U-turns, and improving intersections. The results are already visible, with smoother vehicle movement and a noticeable increase in traffic speed.”

To address congestion issues in Yerawada, Airport, Kharadi, and Wagholi, the Traffic Divisions, under the guidance of Joint CP Ranjan Kumar Sharma and Additional CP Manoj Patil, studied chronic bottlenecks and implemented key measures such as:

• Shastri Nagar Chowk (Yerawada): Closing the right turn towards Kalyani Nagar and introducing a U-turn ahead to maintain a smooth traffic flow.
• Vadgaon Sheri Chowk: Vehicles turning right towards Vadgaon Sheri were causing congestion. Now, a U-turn has been created near Agnibaz Gate to prevent disruptions on the main road.
• Vimannagar Chowk (Phoenix Mall): The right turn was removed, and a U-turn was introduced at Somnathnagar Chowk, eliminating a major traffic hurdle.
• Kharadi Dargah Chowk: By closing the right turn and introducing a U-turn at Aple Ghar bus stop, the road has been made signal-free, improving overall traffic flow.

Technology-Driven Traffic Monitoring

The Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) has played a critical role in monitoring traffic movement. The system’s analysis shows that vehicle speed on Pune-Nagar Road has increased significantly compared to January and February of last year.

DCP Amol Zende added, “We are using ATMS technology to analyze traffic patterns and make data-driven decisions. The success of these changes proves that strategic planning and enforcement can bring tangible improvements.”

Crackdown on Traffic Violations

Alongside road improvements, a strict traffic enforcement drive has been in effect since January 2025. In the Pune-Nagar Road Division, police have taken action against:

• Wrong-side driving, drunk driving, triple-seat riding, no parking violations, and signal jumping
• 34,311 cases registered, resulting in a total fine of ₹2.48 crore

Special Measures to Ease Wagholi Traffic

Wagholi, a rapidly growing suburb, has long struggled with traffic chaos. As part of the road improvement program, authorities have taken bold steps to address congestion, including:

• Clearing encroachments: Removal of illegal boards, posters, and signs along a 2-km stretch from Wagheshwar Chowk to Kesnand Phata and Bakori Phata.
• Road repairs: Filling potholes and asphalting roads between Wagheshwar Chowk and Bakori Phata Chowk.
• Shifting traffic signals and making a rotary at Kesanand Phata to streamline vehicle movement.
• Removing electric poles and trees for smoother road expansion.

Additionally, a special team has been deployed to monitor traffic rule violations in Wagholi. In collaboration with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), police have detained three luxury buses and fined 1,618 vehicles, including dumpers, highway trucks, mixers, and JCBs, imposing penalties worth ₹18.10 lakh.

Strict Action Against Unruly Drivers

A dedicated team of 30-35 police personnel has been cracking down on reckless driving in Wagholi. Since the beginning of the drive:

• 4,881 cases have been registered
• ₹25 lakh in fines have been collected

Future Plans: Permanent Traffic Solutions

The current traffic management strategies are being implemented on a pilot basis. However, if proven successful in the long run, these changes will be made permanent, with further improvements in U-turns, right and left turns, and intersection designs in coordination with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

DCP Amol Zende emphasized, “Our goal is to make Pune’s roads safer and more efficient. We will continue monitoring and refining our strategies to ensure long-term improvements.”