Pune: Traffic Control Plan Near Khadakwasla and Sinhagad Fort to Be Rolled Out After Weekend Chaos
Pune, 22nd May 2025: In response to massive traffic snarls witnessed last weekend, local authorities are gearing up to implement a series of traffic management measures around Khadakwasla Dam and the Sinhagad Fort access routes. The action follows a surge of visitors drawn by the pleasant weather and pre-monsoon showers, leading to long traffic jams and bottlenecks in the area.
With scenic spots like Khadakwasla, Sinhagad, and Panshet turning into seasonal hotspots during weekends, especially in the monsoon, the Pune police and civic authorities are now preparing to put in place temporary fixes to ease congestion.
Key changes being proposed include a one-way traffic system near Khadakwasla village (gaothan), temporary traffic medians along the dam road, additional traffic marshals, and the creation of a temporary parking zone near the village. Officials also plan to take action against illegal encroachments that reduce road width and worsen congestion.
On Tuesday, representatives from the local police station, PMC officials, elected representatives, and citizen activists jointly surveyed the area to identify pressure points and assess possible interventions.
“The entire Khadakwasla stretch was clogged for hours on Sunday evening,” said activist Mahesh Pokale, who has been advocating for long-term planning in the area. “We’ve asked the authorities to act swiftly before the monsoon sets in, so both tourists and locals don’t suffer.”
A senior official from Nanded City Police Station confirmed that multiple solutions are under consideration. “The dam-side road faces congestion almost every weekend. The gaothan area is particularly problematic due to its narrow lanes,” the officer said. “We’re considering a one-way traffic loop to keep vehicles flowing in a single direction. Temporary barricades will be installed to prevent random U-turns and illegal parking. A vacant plot has also been identified for public parking near the village.”
Local residents say these issues crop up every year, yet little has been done to plan ahead.
The proposed traffic control measures are expected to be implemented starting this weekend, with authorities monitoring the outcome closely to make further improvements if necessary.
