Pune authorities have revised the speed limit along the Navale Bridge stretch, raising it to 40 kmph from the earlier 30 kmph. The adjustment, effective Thursday, affects the busy highway corridor connecting Katraj New Tunnel, Bhumkar Bridge, and Navale Bridge, a section known for a higher incidence of serious accidents. Officials emphasised that the new limit is designed to balance road safety with practical driving requirements for heavy and light vehicles alike.
The Traffic Department, in coordination with the Save Life Foundation and road safety experts, conducted a detailed analysis of traffic patterns and accident data over the past several months. A senior traffic official noted that the temporary 30 kmph limit had posed operational challenges, particularly for larger vehicles where braking at lower speeds increased accident risk. The updated 40 kmph threshold aims to standardise vehicle flow while mitigating crash hazards.
The Mumbai–Bengaluru Highway segment near Navale Bridge has long been under scrutiny due to recurring incidents involving both commuter and freight traffic. By reviewing vehicle dynamics, accident trends, and road geometry, authorities concluded that 40 kmph provides an optimal compromise between safety and traffic efficiency. Enforcement will rely on a combination of CCTV surveillance and speed detection devices, with penalties for non-compliance strictly applied.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Himmat Jadhav explained that the recalibrated speed limit also considers driver behaviour and vehicle response characteristics on this high-density corridor. “Our approach integrates data-driven insights with practical driving considerations, ensuring both commuter safety and efficient traffic movement,” the official said.Industry experts emphasised that sustainable urban mobility requires not only strict enforcement but also infrastructure design that accommodates current and projected traffic volumes. Improved signposting, adequate lane widths, and public awareness campaigns remain critical complements to speed regulations.
For daily commuters and commercial operators, the revision highlights the importance of monitoring speedometers and adhering to traffic advisories. Road safety analysts suggest that compliance, combined with continuous monitoring and infrastructure upgrades, can reduce accident frequency while maintaining traffic fluidity.The update reflects Pune’s broader efforts to harmonise urban traffic management with safety objectives, particularly on high-risk corridors. By integrating research-based policymaking, enforcement, and public education, city authorities aim to enhance road safety outcomes without compromising operational efficiency. Continuous assessment of accident patterns and driver behaviour will inform any future adjustments along the Navale Bridge and similar stretches.
Pune Traffic Department Raises Navale Bridge Speed Limit To Forty Kilometres
