Pune: Lonikand Traffic Branch Eases Wagholi’s Traffic Woes with Targeted Drives

Wagholi, 20th March 2024: The persistent traffic congestion in Wagholi, spanning nearly a month, has shown signs of improvement thanks to the proactive measures taken by the Lonikand Traffic Branch. The implementation of targeted drives against vehicles has significantly alleviated the situation. The weekly market day on Tuesdays, which was a recurring factor contributing to the congestion, is now witnessing smoother traffic flow.

However, sustaining this positive momentum requires an augmentation in the number of traffic police personnel. Previously, commuters endured substantial delays along the Pune-Ahmednagar Highway due to the gridlock in Wagholi, prompting diversions for drivers heading from the city. Following the assumption of duty by Assistant Police Inspector Gajanan Jadhav at the Lonikand Traffic Branch, concerted efforts have been made to untangle the traffic snarl.

Inspector Jadhav’s initiatives encompassed not only enforcement actions against traffic violations but also educational campaigns to promote adherence to traffic regulations and discourage heavy traffic volume. Measures such as crackdowns on rule-breaking vehicles, stringent monitoring of PMPML bus drivers, and curbing street vending on market days have been pivotal in restoring order on the roads, providing considerable relief to residents and commuters alike.

Despite initial directives from the former Traffic Deputy Commissioner, Shashikant Borate, to address the Wagholi congestion, his transfer to Thane interrupted the continuity of efforts. The recent appointment of Police Inspector Suresh Shinde to the Lonikand Traffic Branch brings renewed focus to the issue. Inspector Shinde, who assumed his role just three days ago, is already spearheading initiatives like the installation of traffic signals at key intersections, including BJS School Chowk, and the approval for a signal at Lohegaon Chowk. These developments signify a collective effort to sustain and enhance the traffic management measures in Wagholi, ensuring smoother commutes for all.

Addressing the following measures is crucial to resolving the existing challenges:

1. Introducing towing van services to swiftly clear obstructions.

2. Implementing CCTV surveillance in key areas to enhance monitoring.

3. Increasing the number of traffic personnel for improved management.

4. Expanding the count of wardens to provide additional assistance.

5. Removing electric poles obstructing roads to streamline traffic flow.

6. Developing internal roads to alleviate congestion on main routes.

7. Clearing obstacles hindering smooth traffic movement.

8. Installing signals at critical intersections to regulate traffic effectively.

9. Meeting the staffing requirements, including officers and support staff.

10. Establishing separate cabins for officers and staff to facilitate operations.

11. Providing washroom facilities for female employees for their convenience.

12. Setting up a Traffic Control Booth at Wagheshwar Chowk for centralized monitoring.

13. Implementing other advanced systems to enhance operational efficiency.

14. Addressing the specific needs of the Lonikand Transport Branch.

Presently, there’s some relief from traffic congestion, as observed by Balasaheb Satav, President of the Senior Citizens Association in Wagholi. However, certain issues persist within the transport branch, which need immediate attention and resolution. He further acknowledged the positive impact of the Lonikand Traffic Branch’s actions in alleviating traffic congestion. Yet, he emphasizes the importance of providing adequate human resources and robust systems to ensure sustained progress. Cooperation from the Pune Municipal Corporation is also deemed essential in addressing these challenges effectively.