Ambernath | September 3, 2026 — Major roads in Ambernath, Badlapur and Ulhasnagar could face traffic congestion during Dahi Handi celebrations as organisers prepare to install stages at key junctions and along important routes, according to a report by Loksatta – Thane. Possible traffic diversions may leave commuters needing to reconsider their travel routes on the festival day.
Preparations for several events are reportedly under way in Ambernath, where stages are being planned near important roads and squares. The report said Dahi Handi events are expected at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk in the eastern part of the city, at locations near the Kalyan-Badlapur State Highway and along the eastern bypass road. Events are also planned near Hutama Chowk and on a road in Vadavali.
The concentration of stages is expected to affect roads that already experience pressure from ongoing works and narrow carriageways. Road construction at several locations on the Kalyan-Badlapur State Highway, which passes through Ambernath and Ulhasnagar, has been identified as an additional factor that could worsen traffic movement. The report also said that signal systems have added stopping points rather than easing congestion in some parts of the cities.
The likely impact on traffic management remains dependent on the final placement of stages and the arrangements made by local authorities and organisers. The report indicated that route changes could be considered, but it did not provide a confirmed diversion plan, closure schedule or details of an official traffic notification.
Similar congestion concerns have been raised for Badlapur and Ulhasnagar. In Ulhasnagar, the city’s narrow roads may limit available space for stages, although the report said construction had not yet begun at the locations mentioned. The events are expected to draw crowds and occupy sections of important roads and junctions.
The celebrations also pose a safety challenge for organisers because of the increasing emphasis on taller human pyramids and larger prize competitions. Practice events, referred to locally as ‘chor handi’, were held in Badlapur and Ulhasnagar this year. The report said safety belts worn by children positioned on the top tiers came off during practice at some locations, although no injuries were reported.
The report said political parties across the three cities are preparing events, making crowd control, road access and participant safety important operational concerns. Commuters have been advised through the report to assess traffic conditions before travelling, while the final arrangements for diversions and stage management remain to be clarified by the concerned authorities.
