Pune flyover, University Chowk, traffic congestion, Ganeshkhind Road, PMRDA, infrastructure project, metro line
Officials from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) have indicated that the much-awaited infrastructure project, a critical artery aimed at decongesting Ganeshkhind Road – one of Pune’s busiest thoroughfares – is on track for a likely opening within the next six weeks, despite some earlier setbacks. Initially slated for completion in May, the project encountered minor delays primarily due to complexities in land acquisition and the subsequent road widening efforts necessitated by the flyover’s design. However, PMRDA authorities have provided assurances that the major structural components of the two-tiered flyover are nearing completion. All 32 supporting pillars have been successfully erected, and the installation of the substantial 55-metre long and 18-20 metre wide steel girders is progressing at a brisk pace.
This innovative double-decker structure forms an integral component of Pune’s broader urban infrastructure enhancement strategy. It is designed to seamlessly connect key urban centres such as the burgeoning IT hub of Hinjewadi with the established commercial and administrative hub of Shivajinagar. Furthermore, the flyover promises to significantly improve traffic flow across several critical arterial roads, including Ganeshkhind Road, Senapati Bapat Road, Baner Road, Aundh Road, and Pashan Road, offering a much-needed respite from the daily bottlenecks that plague these routes. The ingenious design of the flyover incorporates a two-tier system to optimise space utilisation and traffic management. The upper tier will be dedicated to accommodating the elevated Hinjawadi-Shivajinagar Metro line, ensuring efficient public transportation integration. The lower tier will serve vehicular traffic via a network of strategically designed ramps, effectively separating through traffic from local movements and reducing intersection conflicts that contribute to congestion.
While the majority of the flyover is anticipated to be operational by the end of June, PMRDA officials have indicated that the ramps on the Pashan side are still under construction and are expected to require an additional couple of months for completion. In contrast, the ramps leading towards the densely populated areas of Aundh and the vital node of Shivajinagar are nearing finalisation and are projected to be opened to vehicular traffic by approximately May 20th, offering an initial segment of relief to commuters travelling in these directions. Utility shifting work in the vicinity of the Baner ramp is also reported to be in its concluding stages. The completion of pillar construction at key junctions such as E-Square and Baner has streamlined the subsequent phases of the project, allowing for a more focused approach to the remaining tasks. Earlier in the year, local legislator Siddharth Shirole had indicated a potential opening of the stretch from Bremen Circle to E-Square by the beginning of May, a timeline that was subsequently adjusted.
The ongoing construction activities have inevitably led to temporary traffic disruptions in the vicinity of SPPU Chowk, causing understandable frustration among daily commuters and local residents. Calls for an expedited completion of the remaining work and minimisation of inconvenience have been voiced by many who eagerly await the operationalisation of this crucial infrastructure. Despite these interim challenges, PMRDA remains optimistic that the main structure of the double-decker flyover, excluding the Pashan-side ramps, will be ready for public use by the end of June. This milestone will mark a significant step forward in Pune’s continuous efforts to modernise its urban infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and improve the quality of life for its burgeoning population by addressing the persistent issue of traffic congestion in one of its most critical intersections. The project embodies the city’s commitment to building a more efficient and sustainable urban environment for its residents.
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