Pune’s Iconic “Z Bridge” to Undergo Month-Long Repairs; Night Traffic to Be Restricted
Pune’s Iconic “Z Bridge” to Undergo Month-Long Repairs; Night Traffic to Be Restricted
Late Kakasaheb Gadgil Bridge, widely recognized as Pune’s “Z Bridge,” is set to undergo essential repair work, bringing temporary changes to the city’s traffic movement. This well-known link between the Deccan area and the Peth localities plays a crucial role in daily commuting, and authorities have now scheduled a month-long maintenance plan to ensure its long-term safety and durability.
According to officials, the Pune Municipal Corporation will carry out the repair work from April 10 to May 9. During this period, the bridge will remain completely closed to traffic every night between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Commuters have been advised to plan their travel accordingly and rely on alternate routes to avoid inconvenience during these hours.
The decision follows a detailed structural audit ordered by District Collector Jitendra Dudi after last year’s monsoon season. The inspection covered all flyovers within municipal limits and revealed that 17 bridges require urgent attention. Repair work has already been completed on Khadakwasla, Sambhaji, and Dandekar bridges in the first phase, and the focus has now shifted to the Z Bridge as part of the second phase.
Officials from the municipal corporation have highlighted that the replacement of expansion joints and bearings on the bridge is critical. These components are essential for maintaining the structure’s strength and smooth functioning, making the repairs unavoidable despite the temporary disruption.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate and use alternative routes during the repair window. Coordination among various departments has been ensured to complete the work efficiently and within the given timeline. While the restrictions may slightly affect nighttime traffic flow, the upgrades are expected to significantly enhance the bridge’s safety and lifespan.
Once the repair work is completed, the Z Bridge is expected to reopen in improved condition, contributing to smoother and safer commuting for Pune residents in the long run.
