Pune Traffic Forces Minister Nitin Gadkari’s Convoy to Reroute During Site Inspection

Pune, 23rd June 2025: In an ironic turn of events, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, known for championing mega infrastructure projects across India, found himself stuck in the very problem he came to address—Pune’s notorious traffic jams.

Gadkari had arrived in Pune on Monday morning to inspect the site of a proposed underground road between Shaniwarwada and Swargate, a project aimed at easing congestion in the city’s central areas. However, before the inspection could begin, his convoy was forced to take a U-turn due to severe traffic congestion near Chhatrapati Shivaji Road and Bajirao Road—ironically, the very location identified for the subway project.

Despite Pune’s traffic problems being a familiar sight for locals—often caused by potholes, rains, festivals, or VVIP movements—this incident brought national attention because even a central minister was not spared.

BJP MLA Hemant Rasne, who had invited Gadkari for the inspection, presented the pressing need for the tunnel. “The central part of Pune chokes during peak hours. This tunnel is not a luxury—it’s a necessity,” Rasne told Gadkari while briefly updating him about the proposed project in front of Shaniwarwada.

Gadkari, who arrived almost an hour late—at around 11:50 am instead of the scheduled 10:30 am—chose not to step out for a detailed site visit due to the growing chaos around. “Given the traffic situation and urgency of his schedule, the convoy had to reroute via Jangli Maharaj Road,” a senior police officer said.

The unplanned U-turn by Gadkari’s convoy, orchestrated on police advice to avoid further delay, caused a flutter among security personnel and citizens alike. “It’s symbolic,” said a commuter caught in the jam. “If even the minister of highways couldn’t reach the site because of traffic, it says everything about our city’s infrastructure.”

A video clip of the U-turn went viral on social media, sparking debates about urban planning, delayed infrastructure projects, and the lived experiences of Punekars.

Known for delivering high-impact projects like the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and nationwide highway expansions, Gadkari enjoys a reputation as a doer. His speeches often trend on social media for their candidness and commitment to efficiency.

“Minister Gadkari takes time even for ground-level workers and seldom turns down requests to visit local projects,” said a BJP worker who was present during the visit. “This could’ve been an important moment for Pune’s traffic relief.”

Despite the abrupt end to the visit, Rasne expressed hope that Gadkari would review the project report and help fast-track approvals. “Even though the site visit couldn’t happen as planned, I believe the minister understands the urgency,” Rasne said.

Many citizens now hope this experience serves as a wake-up call for the authorities. “This is not just about a U-turn, it’s about turning the tide on Pune’s deteriorating traffic situation,” said Sangeeta Joshi, a local resident.

While no formal announcement was made about funding or timelines for the proposed tunnel, officials say the matter is now “under active consideration.”