Pune-Solapur Road to Get Relief from Traffic Congestion with BRTS Changes
Pune, 7th September 2023: In a bid to alleviate the persistent traffic congestion on the Pune-Solapur road, authorities are set to remove obstacles and dismantle a portion of the BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) route. The plan also includes reducing the width of footpaths and eliminating cycle tracks in certain areas. This move has raised concerns about the BRTS route’s viability as a solution to traffic problems.
Traffic congestion has become a major issue on the Pune-Solapur road. Fifteen years ago, a trial BRTS route was established, stretching from Katraj to Hadapsar, with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) investing Rs 100 crore in its development. However, as BRTS seemed to exacerbate traffic problems, opposition from various parties grew, leading to its decline.
Now, the civic administration is taking steps to widen the road by removing a segment of the BRTS route, aiming to facilitate smoother travel. The first phase involves widening the road from Bhairoba Nala to Akashwani. A meeting was convened last week, attended by PMC, PMPML, RTO, and traffic police officials, to address road encroachments and tackle traffic congestion. Subsequently, the civic administration has initiated appropriate actions.
After the removal of obstructions, four lanes will be available, according to the administration. A portion of the BRTS route deemed unnecessary will be eliminated, and the width of footpaths and service roads will be reduced. Additionally, cycle tracks alongside footpaths will be scaled back, while BRTS bus stops will be relocated to the roadside.
The road between Bhairoba Nala and Akashwani currently spans 45 meters. The BRTS route occupies 10 meters, with four-meter-wide footpaths on both sides and cycle tracks. In some areas, there are 7.5-meter-wide service roads. Due to these encroachments, dividers, and other obstructions, a 24-meter-wide road remains underutilized. The decision to address this issue was prompted by the disjointed nature of the BRTS route at some locations, as stated by the civic administration.
VG Kulkarni, Chief Engineer of the Road Department, explained, “Upon the removal of obstructions, the Solapur road will feature four lanes instead of the current two. Encroachments on service roads and footpaths will be eliminated, prioritizing the goal of unobstructed travel. The decision will be executed following approval from all relevant departments.”
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