Pune’s long-standing traffic congestion issues are set to be addressed with decisive moves by the Maharashtra government, led by senior officials and urban development experts.
In a recent high-level meeting with municipal authorities, the government directed the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to immediately dismantle the incomplete Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor on Nagar Road. This decision follows growing concerns over the corridor’s role in exacerbating traffic snarls and increasing accident risks. Simultaneously, the government has approved an ambitious plan to extend the two-tier flyover, originally designed to connect Shirur to Wagholi, further east to Phoenix Mall in Viman Nagar. This strategic extension aims to streamline traffic flow, reduce commuting time, and improve connectivity across key areas of Pune’s bustling eastern corridor.
The move to remove the BRT corridor stems from persistent complaints about its inefficacy and safety hazards. The incomplete structure, which stretches between Somnath Nagar Chowk and Kharadi Bypass Chowk, has become a bottleneck rather than a solution, with drivers frequently navigating around poorly designed sections. This has led to an increase in accidents, particularly during peak hours when traffic density surges. During the meeting, officials presented evidence of the corridor’s adverse impact on daily commutes, highlighting not just traffic congestion but also the unintended creation of bottlenecks at crucial intersections. In response to these concerns, the municipal authority directed the PMC to initiate the removal process without delay. The PMC has assured swift action to clear the corridor, aiming to reduce the adverse effects on urban mobility.
Parallel to this, the government’s focus has shifted to enhancing the city’s vertical transport infrastructure. The extension of the two-tier flyover to Viman Nagar is expected to alleviate pressure on Nagar Road by diverting heavy traffic flows, particularly from commercial vehicles and public transport. This expansion will integrate seamlessly with Pune’s growing suburban network, fostering more efficient mobility options. To facilitate this project, the government has directed the issuance of the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PMC, ensuring that bureaucratic hurdles are swiftly cleared. The flyover extension is anticipated to not only improve traffic conditions but also boost economic activities in Viman Nagar, a thriving commercial and residential hub.
Apart from traffic management, the meeting also addressed critical water supply issues affecting several Pune localities, including Vadgaon Sheri, Ganesh Nagar, Somnath Nagar, Kharadi, and Viman Nagar. Complaints regarding water scarcity and the alleged exploitation of residents by tanker operators prompted senior officials to order the implementation of a “Free Tanker” system. This initiative aims to eliminate confusion and ensure that citizens receive water supplies without additional charges, particularly during times of crisis. Furthermore, the redevelopment of the Housing Board project in Yerawada was also discussed. The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) delegation highlighted delays in obtaining the necessary permissions for the project’s continuation. The government assured immediate intervention to expedite the approval process, recognising the importance of timely housing development in addressing Pune’s growing urban population.
These decisions underscore a broader commitment to sustainable urban development. The government’s approach reflects an understanding that effective urban planning must balance infrastructure growth with environmental sustainability, equitable access, and enhanced quality of life for residents. The removal of the BRT corridor and the flyover extension are not merely infrastructural changes; they represent a shift towards more dynamic, responsive urban governance. By prioritising the removal of ineffective systems and investing in scalable, future-ready transport solutions, Pune is set to become a model for other rapidly urbanising cities in India.
As these projects unfold, the focus remains on creating an eco-friendly, accessible, and resilient urban environment, aligning with broader national goals for sustainable city development.
Pune Government Orders BRT Corridor Removal, Approves Flyover to Viman Nagar
