Commuter Alert Mumbai-Bound Panvel Exit Blocked for 6 Months
In a significant infrastructure overhaul, the Mumbai-bound exit at Panvel on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway is set to remain completely closed for six months starting February 11. The closure is part of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation’s (MSRDC) efforts to enhance traffic flow at the congested Kalamboli Junction by constructing a new flyover and underpass.
The extensive roadwork, aimed at easing bottlenecks in the crucial transit corridor, will directly impact commuters travelling towards Panvel, Mumbra, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT). The Navi Mumbai Traffic Department has confirmed that the restriction will apply 24 hours a day to both light and heavy vehicles. To mitigate disruptions, alternative routes have been announced. Vehicles heading towards Panvel, Goa, and JNPT from the Mumbai-Pune Expressway will be diverted at Konphata (9.600 km) onto NH-48 via Palaspe Circle. Meanwhile, those travelling from Pune to Mumbai and requiring access to Taloja, Kalyan, and Shilphata will need to continue straight from 1.200 km onto the Panvel-Sion Highway, take a right turn under the Purusharth Petrol Pump flyover, and proceed via Roadpali and NH-48.
Authorities have assured that the closure is a necessary step towards resolving chronic congestion at Kalamboli Circle, which has long been a bottleneck for thousands of daily commuters. Tirupati Kakade, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Navi Mumbai, stated that the restriction order has been issued under the Motor Vehicles Act and will remain in effect until the MSRDC completes the construction work. “Once completed, this project will significantly improve traffic movement at Kalamboli, reducing delays and enhancing overall commuter experience,” DCP Kakade noted. While infrastructure upgrades are essential for long-term mobility solutions, the closure is expected to cause temporary inconvenience for motorists. Commuters are advised to plan their routes accordingly and stay updated on traffic advisories for a smoother journey.
