Mumbai–Pune Expressway Traffic Update: Long Jams As Devotees Head to Konkan for Ganeshotsav

Mumbai–Pune Expressway Traffic Update: Long Jams As Devotees Head to Konkan for Ganeshotsav
Mumbai, August 27 – Heavy traffic jams were reported on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway on Wednesday morning as thousands of devotees set out for their hometowns in Konkan to celebrate Ganeshotsav. The festive rush brought vehicles to a crawl, leaving commuters stuck for hours on the busy route.
The 10-day festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, which begins today, is among Maharashtra’s most cherished celebrations. Families across the state welcome Lord Ganesha into their homes, societies, and mandals with devotion and joy. For many Mumbaikars, Konkan holds a special emotional and cultural connection, with its traditional rituals, vibrant atmosphere, and strong community spirit drawing lakhs of devotees back each year.
While weekend traffic on the expressway is routine, the festival has magnified the congestion. Long queues of vehicles were seen, especially in the ghat sections near Pune, where preparations for Ganpati aagman (the ceremonial welcome of the deity) added to the rush. Police and highway authorities have been deployed in large numbers, setting up barricades, diversions, and patrols to regulate movement and ensure safety. Citizens have been urged to follow instructions, remain patient, and plan travel carefully.
Meanwhile, Ganesh Utsav preparations are in full swing across Maharashtra. Police have intensified security checks at pandals, immersion routes, and public gatherings to ensure smooth celebrations.
Despite the traffic woes, the festive spirit remains high. For countless devotees, the annual journey to their hometowns is an inseparable part of the tradition, symbolizing how Ganeshotsav continues to unite families, communities, and regions in celebration.