Pune: Traffic Chaos in Lonavla Prompts Authorities to Take Strict Action Against Unauthorized Food Stalls

Lonavala, 5th December 2023: Authorities in Lonavala are gearing up to take strict action against unauthorized Maggi stalls, tempo food stalls, and other makeshift shops along the Old Pune Mumbai Highway Road and Sahara Bridge in the city. Lonavala, being a trendy tourist destination, experiences a significant influx of visitors, including tourists and VIPs, especially on weekends and holidays. However, the increasing number of illegal food stalls and makeshift shops leads to traffic congestion, creating difficulties for both tourists and the general public.

The unauthorized stalls, tea shops, and snack centres at Maggi Point on National Highway No. 48 from Mumbai to Pune have not only encroached upon public spaces but have also triggered unhealthy competition among vendors, resulting in fights and serious crimes that have been registered at the Lonavala City Police Station.

The situation is exacerbated by the sloping road leading from Lonavala to Mumbai at Maggi Point, where vehicles travel at high speeds. The practice of parking vehicles on the roadside while people visit Maggi Point for tea and food has contributed to an increase in accidents.

To address these issues, Sub Divisional Police Officer Satyasai Karthik of the Lonavala Division, along with the Executive Engineer of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation in Pune and the Chief Officer of Lonavla Municipal Council, has initiated correspondence. The goal is to completely shut down unauthorized Maggi shops on National Highway No. 48 in Lonavla city and remove the Tempo handcarts of Snacks and Tea on Sahara Bridge, as well as other small shops contributing to the traffic and safety concerns. Strict measures are expected to be taken to restore order and ensure the safety of both locals and visitors in the area.