Heavy Vehicle Ban on Pune–Bengaluru Highway from October 15 to Ease Traffic Congestion
Pune, 8th October 2025: In a major move to reduce traffic congestion and prevent accidents, the Pune City Traffic Police, in coordination with the District Collector’s Office, has announced a time-bound ban on heavy and oversized vehicles along the Pune–Bengaluru Highway (Katraj–Kivale Bypass), effective from October 15, 2025, until further notice.
The restriction applies to through-traffic vehicles that do not enter Pune city limits, including multi-axle trucks, trailers, containers, dumpers, tractors, JCBs, and other slow-moving machinery. The decision comes in response to growing vehicular pressure on the bypass, which serves as a crucial corridor for commuters traveling to the Hinjawadi IT park and nearby industrial areas.
Ban Timings and Routes
Morning (8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.) – From Katraj towards Kivale on NH-48
Evening (5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) – From Kivale towards Katraj on NH-48 and parts of the Old Pune–Mumbai Highway (NH-4)
These timings coincide with peak commuting hours, when traffic flow to and from Hinjawadi is at its highest.
Additional Restrictions and Safety Measures
Heavy vehicles from Satara, Sangli, and Kolhapur heading towards Bengaluru will not be allowed beyond Shindewadi Toll Naka during restricted hours.
Vehicles from Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad heading towards the bypass will be stopped at Urse Toll Naka or Vadgaon Phata.
Exemptions apply to essential service vehicles, including those transporting fuel, milk, agricultural produce, and emergency supplies, as well as those entering Pune city.
Authorities have directed the installation of information and warning boards along the bypass to alert drivers about the restrictions. Police will guide halted vehicles to designated areas such as dhabas, petrol pumps, and hotel parking lots to avoid congestion near restricted zones.
Reasons for the Ban
The Katraj–Kivale bypass has seen a sharp rise in traffic due to rapid urbanization and industrialization around Pune. With thousands of daily commuters from central Pune, Kothrud, Baner, and Pashan traveling to Hinjavadi, the influx of inter-district heavy vehicles has worsened congestion, causing frequent accidents and long delays.
Officials believe the restrictions will improve traffic flow, enhance commuter safety, and reduce travel time during peak hours. Public awareness campaigns are being planned through media and social platforms to inform drivers and transport operators about the new rules.
The ban will remain in force until further notice, and violators will face penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
