Pune: BBNM Urges PMC to Conduct Traffic Impact Study Before Opening Balewadi-Kaspate Wasti Bridge

Balewadi, 9th May 2026: A delegation from the Baner-Balewadi Nagrik Manch (BBNM) met with Pune Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram on Friday to submit a formal memorandum regarding the worsening traffic conditions in the Baner-Balewadi area. The citizens’ group has demanded that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) conduct a “Potential Future Traffic Impact Study” prior to the opening of the Balewadi-Kaspate Wasti bridge.

While the new bridge is expected to ease travel between Pimpri-Chinchwad and Baner-Balewadi, BBNM representatives warned that the resulting surge in vehicle movement could overwhelm the locality. Thousands of additional vehicles are projected to enter Balewadi daily, adding immense pressure to an area already struggling with congestion.

The BBNM highlighted that major junctions—including Mamta Chowk, Balewadi High Street, Dasara Chowk, and Baner Road—are likely to be the worst affected. They noted that several schools in the vicinity are already facing daily traffic snarls, causing regular inconvenience to residents and commuters.

The meeting also addressed the lack of preparedness for upcoming Metro services. The BBNM pointed out that essential pedestrian infrastructure, such as footpaths and safe crossing facilities, is currently inadequate. They cautioned that a lack of proper planning would lead to increased traffic confusion and accidents.

The proposed study requested by the Manch aims to address several critical issues, including:
Planning for traffic signals and traffic islands.
Implementation of no-parking zones and P1/P2 parking management.

Removal of encroachments and regulation of heavy vehicle movement.

Completion of internal road networks and improved coordination with the Pune Traffic Police.

Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram assured the BBNM members that the concerns would be reviewed in coordination with the relevant departments.

Representing the Manch at the meeting were Ameya Jagtap, Meghana Bhandari, and Pushkar Kulkarni. The group emphasized that urban development must prioritize the quality of life and safety of residents over mere infrastructure expansion.