Pune: Controversial Shastrinagar Flyover Project Sparks Public Concern Over Traffic Management And Cost
Pune: Controversial Shastrinagar Flyover Project Sparks Public Concern Over Traffic Management And Cost
The proposed Y-shaped flyover and grade separator at Shastrinagar Chowk, estimated to cost Rs. 97 crores, has drawn sharp criticism from citizens and urban planners alike. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) recently approved the project without apparent due diligence, raising questions about its necessity and potential impact on traffic congestion.
Qaneez Sukhrani, Convenor of the Association of Nagar Road Citizens Forum, has voiced strong opposition to the project, arguing that it will not alleviate traffic jams but instead create more chaos. She called for a stricter traffic management plan from the Traffic Police before proceeding with the construction.
Sukhrani and other concerned citizens are demanding answers to several key questions:
1. Traffic Survey Validity:What evidence does the traffic survey provide to justify the need for this Y-shaped project?
2. BRTS Corridor Removal: In December 2023, BRTS corridors were removed from Gunjan Chowk to Viman Nagar Chowk, freeing up nearly 11 meters of road width. Why has the PMC allowed BRTS bus shelters to remain, rendering the additional space ineffective?
3.Tree Cutting and Road Widening:Has PMC considered that an additional 10 meters of road width was gained after the removal of about 20 trees at Matru Chhaya? Why was this done despite citizens’ objections?
4. Incomplete Road Alignment: Why has PMC not completed the divider work and aligned the road equally on either side of Nagar Road following the removal of BRTS corridors?
5. Alternative Traffic Solutions:Why has the Traffic Police not considered implementing a rotary system and tighter traffic management at Shastrinagar Chowk?
Critics, including Sukhrani, accuse local politician Sunil Tingre of promoting the project for political gain ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, rather than seeking cost-effective solutions to traffic issues.
Sukhrani is requesting a meeting and site visit with both PMC officials and the Traffic Police to address these concerns before the project moves forward. The public is calling for greater transparency and consideration of alternative solutions to avoid future complications and potential legal challenges.
