Pune Traffic Police have closed two routes through the Market Yard area because of ongoing underground construction for the Swargate-Katraj Metro corridor, directing motorists towards Wakhar Mahamandal Chowk and Seven Loves Chowk until further orders.
The restrictions came into effect on October 21 and apply to vehicles travelling through Shivneri Road towards both Pushpamangal Chowk in the direction of Katraj and Swargate via Wakhar Chowk. The traffic police said the changes were introduced to prevent congestion and maintain the safe movement of vehicles around the construction zone.
According to a press release issued by Dr Sandeep Bhajibhakre, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Pune City, traffic travelling from Market Yard Chowk via Shivneri Road towards Pushpamangal Chowk will be completely closed. Vehicles travelling from Market Yard towards Swargate through Shivneri Road and Wakhar Chowk will also not be permitted to use the route.
“Temporary traffic restrictions have been imposed in the Market Yard area due to the ongoing underground metro construction work between Swargate and Katraj. The changes have been introduced to ease traffic congestion and ensure the smooth and safe movement of vehicles,” Bhajibhakre said in the statement.
Motorists heading towards their destinations have been advised to use the alternative route via Wakhar Mahamandal Chowk and Seven Loves Chowk. Traffic police personnel and volunteers are expected to assist road users during the restriction period, although the notice does not specify a reopening date or an estimated duration for the diversion.
The affected area is a major movement zone in southern Pune, linking Market Yard with routes towards Swargate and Katraj. A route closure in this section can affect commuters, commercial vehicles and visitors travelling to and from the market, while also shifting traffic pressure onto the designated alternative roads. The traffic police have appealed to citizens to follow the diversion and cooperate with personnel deployed in the area.
The restrictions are linked to underground Metro construction between Swargate and Katraj. The order has been issued under Sections 115, 116(1)(a), 116(1)(b), 116(4) and 117 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. These provisions provide the legal basis for regulating or restricting vehicle movement on public roads when authorities consider such measures necessary for traffic management and safety.
The Pune Traffic Police said the restrictions will remain in force until further orders. Motorists using the Market Yard area have been asked to plan their journeys through Wakhar Mahamandal Chowk and Seven Loves Chowk and follow directions issued at the site.
