Pune: New Katraj Tunnel Poses Safety Risk Amid Water Seepage, Poor Infrastructure
Katraj, 21st July 2025: The New Katraj Tunnel, a key access point to Pune from Kolhapur along the Mumbai–Bengaluru National Highway (NH-48), is drawing increasing concern due to hazardous driving conditions created by water leakage and the absence of essential safety systems.
Spanning around 1,458 meters, the tunnel was once seen as a symbol of progress and scenic travel, surrounded by hilly terrain and natural beauty. However, the current condition paints a troubling picture for commuters. Water trickling in from the surrounding hills has been accumulating on the road surface, making it slippery and increasing the likelihood of vehicles—especially two-wheelers and heavy vehicles—losing control.
Despite mounting risks, no safety infrastructure such as speed breakers, caution boards, or traffic alert systems have been installed. Experts have highlighted the tunnel’s poor illumination, the lack of reflective signage, and the absence of speed-monitoring tools like speed guns—all of which create a highly unsafe environment, particularly during night travel or monsoons.
Traffic safety concerns have already escalated near Navale Bridge, another accident-prone spot along NH-48. The steep downhill section there has led to numerous mishaps and prompted public demands for a new flyover. Experts say similar urgency is needed for the New Katraj Tunnel.
In order to prevent future accidents and improve commuter safety, traffic authorities and experts have suggested the following measures:
-Installation of a proper drainage system to divert water away from the roadway
-Speed breakers and signaling systems to regulate traffic
-Deployment of traffic personnel during high-risk hours
-Installation of streetlights for better nighttime visibility
-Speed guns to curb over-speeding
-Reflective signboards and lane markers to guide drivers clearly through the tunnel
