Pune: Concern over traffic jam at Khadakwasla Chowpatty on weekends

Due to heavy traffic on weekends at Chowpatty near Khadakwasla Dam for the past two weeks, many people have been irked and confused. Many are questioning about lack of proper traffic management, actions to take to ease congestion and who should make these decisions for the ease of commuters. 

The number of sellers has also increased on the Chowpatty due to the growing number of tourists. The village was recently submerged into the Pune Municipal Corporation jurisdiction.  The District Superintendent’s office has made additional provisions to address the traffic jams. However, despite being included in Pune Municipal Corporation, the police station remains with the rural department and will soon be included in the city police commissionerate.

It was a narrow path before, and on the weekends, sellers on the Chowpatty were banned. Since there were no sellers, very few tourists stopped here which reduced traffic congestion. 

As per a local, last Sunday, a traffic jam occurred as vehicles were parked on both sides of the road. The situation was resolved after hours of efforts and even ambulance and fire brigade vehicles were stuck in this congestion.

Taking note of the situation, Sub Divisional Police Officer Kailas Dhole Patil said that due to the high number of tourists during monsoon, a demand has been made for additional officers and employees. Barricades have been installed along the road. Efforts are being made to ensure that there are no traffic jams.