Pune: Punawale-Tathwade Underpass Closed for Heavy Traffic to Alleviate Congestion; Authorities Planning To Solve Problems At Bhumkar Chowk

Varad Bhatkhande

Punawale, 27th December 2023: In a bid to address traffic congestion and pollution caused by heavy vehicles, the Punawale-Tathawade underpass has been temporarily closed for heavy traffic, as ordered by Bapu Bangar, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pimpri-Chinchwad Traffic Branch.

The Punawale-Tathawade underpass, a crucial route on the Bangalore-Mumbai highway, witnesses heavy traffic due to its proximity to large residential buildings, numerous shops, establishments, showrooms, schools, and colleges. The significant movement of citizens in this area, coupled with the passage of dumpers, mixers, and other heavy vehicles, has led to persistent traffic jams.

To mitigate these issues, DCP Bangar has directed the closure of the Punawale-Tathawade underpass for heavy vehicles. Instead, heavy vehicles are advised to use the alternative route via a large underpass at Ravet to reach their intended destinations.

Wakad Traffic Division Police Inspector Sunil Pinjan explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, “The ongoing traffic implementation at Tathawade has progressed smoothly, and now, with the closure of heavy vehicles on the Punawale underpass, we are taking incremental steps to address traffic congestion in the area. While planning takes time, we have already implemented a one-way system at Bhumkar Chowk, which has notably improved traffic conditions.”

Despite the one-way implementation at the crucial Bhumkar Chowk, residents in Wakad, Hinjawadi, and the surrounding areas continue to express concerns about ongoing traffic congestion issues. The traffic situation on the service roads of the Katraj Dehu Road bypass, especially in the vicinity of Bhumkar Chowk, remains a significant cause for complaint.

Regarding this, PI Pinjan added, “Our focus is on optimizing traffic flow, and we are exploring additional measures such as prohibiting all vehicles from descending towards the Bhumkar Chowk from Shani Mandir near Indira Institute of Management. This development aims to provide an alternative route, guiding vehicles to turn right from Shani Mandir and then left from Indira National School.”