Motorists using the Mumbai–Pune highway have voiced growing concerns after the repeated snapping of a height restriction barrier at the Anda Point stretch, raising questions about road safety and enforcement. The barrier, installed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to prevent unauthorised heavy vehicle movement, has failed multiple times in recent weeks, even with light vehicle contact.
The structure, meant to deter wrong-side entry of heavy trucks into Khopoli and surrounding zones, was last damaged during the intervening night of Friday and Saturday. The incident was followed by a minor mishap, prompting emergency measures by authorities. A temporary rope was tied between the barrier poles as a stopgap, but it too snapped within hours when a pick-up tempo passed through. According to highway safety officials, the repeated failures underline the urgent need for a more robust and permanent solution. The corporation’s contractor has since installed two additional pipes on the poles to block unauthorised entries. However, the barrier’s compromised condition and a slightly tilted support pole have yet to be fully addressed, leaving the stretch vulnerable to repeat incidents.
Local traffic authorities, in collaboration with the highway safety patrol and volunteers from a civic NGO, have been working to restore safety measures quickly after each incident. Yet, activists warn that ad hoc fixes cannot replace a structurally sound barrier. The absence of consistent monitoring and timely repair work could endanger motorists and undermine the purpose of the restriction. The affected section of the Mumbai–Pune highway is a key commuter and freight corridor linking the two cities, handling thousands of vehicles daily. While light motor vehicles are permitted in this section, the heavy vehicle restriction was introduced to ease congestion, reduce collision risks, and ensure smoother traffic flow near Khopoli. Experts suggest that beyond repairs, the MSRDC must explore eco-friendly design interventions and enforce technology-driven monitoring, such as automatic height detection systems, to curb violations without relying solely on manual enforcement.
Sustainable transport planners believe that well-maintained, durable road safety infrastructure is essential for balancing mobility needs with environmental and urban safety objectives. In high-traffic corridors like this, they stress that long-term structural investments, rather than temporary fixes, are the key to ensuring a safe, equitable, and efficient road network. Until a permanent solution is implemented, the recurring snapping of the barrier remains a potential hazard for both motorists and local communities dependent on the route.
Also Read : Mumbai Belasis Flyover To Be Ready By December 2025
