Pune: Daily traffic congestion near the Rajaram Bridge intersection on Sinhagad Road has left residents frustrated, with many voicing concerns over wasted time and fuel.
Despite the construction of a flyover intended to ease the flow, congestion continues, especially in the areas surrounding new establishments. Residents have called for swift action to address the ongoing issues, highlighting an increase in encroachments that aggravate the problem.
The morning hours see congestion building from Dhayari towards Swargate at Rajaram Bridge, while the evening brings heavy traffic from Swargate towards Dhayari.
A recently constructed residential complex on the Vitthalwadi-to-Rajaram Bridge route has introduced new commercial spaces, which, according to locals, have further intensified the congestion.
One store has opened, and another is expected soon; the inauguration of the current establishment previously led to an hour-long traffic standstill.
The layout surrounding these establishments, including access to the bridge on one side and ongoing roadwork near a women’s water purification center on the other, has contributed to parking issues.
Currently, visitors to these stores are parking vehicles on the roadside, which has amplified the congestion in the area. Residents have suggested restricting two-way traffic between Rajaram Bridge and Vitthalwadi, especially in the evening and nighttime hours, and are also urging immediate action against encroachments along Sinhagad Road.
Assistant Police Inspector Rajkumar Barde of the Traffic Department acknowledged the concerns, stating, “This commercial complex has recently opened its doors. If the newly established parking arrangements are causing significant traffic issues, appropriate measures will be taken to resolve them promptly.”
Sachin Deshmukh, a resident, proposed that all parking designated for the establishments in the new complex be confined within the property’s boundary wall, ensuring that customers avoid using sidewalks or the main road. He emphasized the need for free parking provisions to prevent roadside congestion.
Another resident, Abhishek Patil, suggested the installation of no-parking signs through the traffic police, advocating a complete parking ban from the Vitthalwadi Arch to Rajaram Bridge. He also encouraged business owners to arrange dedicated parking facilities for their patrons, reducing the burden on public roads.
