Flyover demolition, 'forgotten' barricades spark congestion in Pune

PUNE: Chaos, confusion and congestion marked the first day of the post-lockdown period on Friday, with the demolition of flyovers and improper removal of barricades contributing to the problem.


The congestion was most severe at Savitribai Phule Pune University junction and its adjoining areas as people came out in large numbers since the lockdown ended on Thursday.

Barricades were erected at several crucial entry/exit points on University road to divert traffic while the demolition of the SPPU and E-Square flyovers is in progress and, long snaking lines of vehicles could be seen at Aundh Road, Baner Road, Pashan Road, Ganeshkhind Road, Model Colony and a section of Senapati Bapat Road.

Police said the traffic was heavy especially during the peak hours. “There was slow-moving traffic between noon and 6pm. We expect the situation to remain the same until the demolition work is completed and vehicles can use regular routes,” assistant police inspector Prakash More of Chatushrungi traffic division said.

Many motorists complained that it took them an inordinate amount of time to cover short distances. “I had to turn into a congested Model Colony and then join heavy traffic on Senapati Bapat Road. It took me nearly 30 minutes to go from there to Pashan Road,” Baner Resident Pooja Jadhav said.

Deccan resident Yash Jalan said Friday’s rain only worsened the situation by causing waterlogging. “What is the rationale behind doing this right in the middle of the monsoon? The problems will only increase once the construction work starts,” Jalan said.

Officials from Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) said the flyovers should be pulled down by the first week of August. “Despite the 10-day lockdown, we didn’t have too much leeway as there people were still out on the roads,” a PMRDA official said.

Meanwhile, barricades out in place for the 10-day lockdown were not removed from the roads in many areas, affecting traffic flow. “An intersection leading to Salunke Vihar Road was still blocked. I took a detour, but that road was congested due to the blockade,” Neeta Sharan, a resident, said.

Many residents said the situation was similar on many other roads. “With traffic jams, social distancing goes for a toss,” one resident said.