Traffic congestion on the Kalyan-Shilphata Road has worsened during Ganeshotsav as vehicles continue to enter the wrong lane, according to complaints reported by commuters and residents living along the corridor. The congestion is affecting people travelling to visit Ganesh idols and attend family gatherings across several areas of the Kalyan-Dombivli region.
The road is regularly affected by traffic jams, and residents had expected the Kolshewadi traffic division to introduce better traffic management during the festival, when more people travel for religious visits and family programmes. However, commuters have reported that the number of vehicles entering from the opposite direction remains high even during the festival period.
Residents have alleged that traffic police are not taking strict action against motorists driving on the wrong side of the road. According to the complaints, officers sometimes allow such vehicles to continue without issuing action because stopping or penalising them at the location could further obstruct traffic. Residents say this has encouraged more motorists to enter the wrong lane on the Shilphata Road.
The reported congestion is affecting people in Manpada, Sonarpada, Golavli, Nilje, Umbharli, Katai, Kole, Palava, Desai and Khidkali village areas. These localities are connected to the road corridor, and residents travelling between them face delays when wrong-side driving adds to the existing traffic pressure.
The disruption has been particularly difficult for families travelling for Ganesh darshan and planned meals with relatives. Residents living along the Shilphata Road told Loksatta that vehicles remain stuck for extended periods, making it difficult for devotees to reach relatives’ homes on time. They said delayed travel has affected meal arrangements, left guests waiting and disrupted household plans during the festival.
The complaints place the focus on both traffic enforcement and the management of vehicle movement on a corridor already prone to congestion. Residents’ concerns, as reported by Loksatta, centre on the absence of effective action against wrong-side driving and the resulting impact on daily movement through the surrounding villages and residential areas. The report does not include a response from the Kolshewadi traffic police regarding the allegations.
