Pune: Service Roads Along National Highway 48 in Pimpri Chinchwad to Be Expanded for Better Traffic Management

Pimpri, 14th May 2025: The service roads adjoining Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway No. 48 within the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) limits are set to be widened and developed in a coordinated effort between multiple administrative bodies. Commissioner and Administrator Shekhar Singh has directed all concerned departments to expedite the work through seamless coordination.

A joint review meeting between officials of the PCMC and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was held to assess the progress and planning of the service road development project. Commissioner Singh chaired the meeting, which included the participation of NHAI Project Director Sanjay Kadam, PCMC Additional Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale Patil, City Engineer Makarand Nikam, Chief Engineer Sanjay Kulkarni, Deputy Commissioner Manoj Lonkar, Special Officer Kiran Gaikwad, and Regional Officer Amit Pandit, among others.

Currently, the existing road adjacent to the highway is 12 meters wide. Under the new development plan prepared by the NHAI, it will be expanded by an additional 12 meters, making the total width 24 meters. This upgraded road will be executed and maintained by NHAI.

During the meeting, several critical aspects of the project were discussed, including the need to clear obstructions. Commissioner Singh instructed the immediate removal of unauthorized hoardings, structures, and poles that could hinder the development process.

He emphasized the importance of comprehensive planning while laying underground utility lines to ensure they do not obstruct future road work. “The development should consider all essential services, including sewerage, water supply, electricity, and stormwater drainage.

Arrangements for these must also be factored into the design of the service road,” Singh said.

He further instructed that departments responsible for electricity, drainage, water supply, encroachment removal, signage, licensing, and regional administration must work in coordination to avoid delays. Municipal departments were also asked to provide full support to NHAI to ensure the timely completion of the project.

Expanded Roads to Ease Traffic Flow
Commenting on the project, Additional Commissioner Pradeep Jambhale Patil said, “Once the service roads are widened, it will significantly help reduce congestion on the highway. These roads will provide smoother access for local traffic and improve overall traffic management in the area.”