25 Km Shortcut Opens In Pune: Ferry Service Brings Big Relief To Villagers Around Mulshi Dam
25 Km Shortcut Opens In Pune: Ferry Service Brings Big Relief To Villagers Around Mulshi Dam (Representational pic)
Residents around Mulshi dam have got a new travel lifeline as a passenger ferry service has started between Mulshi and Waghwadi, cutting long road detours and improving daily access.
In a major connectivity boost for rural Pune, a passenger ferry service between Mulshi and Waghwadi has been launched, bringing relief to residents of remote villages located around the Mulshi dam reservoir. The new route is expected to reduce travel distance by nearly 20 to 25 kilometres, making everyday movement faster and easier.
For years, villagers on the far side of the reservoir had to take long road routes to reach nearby areas, markets, schools and health services. With the ferry now operational, travel time is expected to come down sharply, especially for people who commute regularly.
16 Villages Expected To Benefit
Officials said the new service is likely to benefit people from 16 villages in the Mulshi region. Among the villages expected to gain direct or easier connectivity are Waghwadi, Shirgaon, Vadgaon, Vaduste, Bhadas Khonda, Nimbarwadi, Bhorkas and Wandre, along with nearby settlements.
Fare Details Announced
The fare structure has been kept simple:
- Adults: Rs 20
- Children: Rs 10
- Motorcycles: Rs 50
Some local residents have reportedly requested a review of charges, especially families affected by displacement and limited income sources. Authorities have said the fare issue can be reconsidered.
The service is expected to improve access to schools, healthcare, markets and government services while reducing fuel costs and travel fatigue for villagers. In regions divided by water bodies, even a short ferry route can change daily life significantly.
The Mulshi launch shows how smaller transport solutions can solve long-pending local problems faster than waiting years for large road projects. If managed well, the service could become a model for other reservoir-side villages in Maharashtra.
Disclaimer: Ferry timings, fares and operational rules may change based on weather, demand and local administration decisions.
