Traffic Woes: Vanaz to Chandni Chowk Commute Troubles
The traffic situation on Paud Road, particularly from the CNG pump near Vanaz Metro station to Chandni Chowk, has become increasingly problematic. This stretch is plagued by heavy congestion, making commutes challenging for both drivers and passengers.
Residents of Paud Road believe that the prolonged travel times and stress caused by traffic issues necessitate a comprehensive approach. They advocate for improvements in road infrastructure, optimized traffic management, and enhanced public transportation options to alleviate the burden on this busy route. Girish Jalan, a resident of Bhusari Colony, shared his concerns with Pune Mirror, stating, “The 1 km stretch of Paud Road from the CNG pump to Chandni Chowk experiences severe traffic jams during evening rush hours at two intersections near Bhusari Colony. The situation worsens at the next intersection heading towards Katraj, where traffic conditions remain equally dire.”
Jalan pointed out that haphazard parking near intersections exacerbates traffic disruptions. He noted that at the bus stop after the Bhusari Colony intersection, passengers waiting for buses often stand on the road, further obstructing traffic flow. He also mentioned that autorickshaws driving the wrong way to access the CNG pump contribute to the chaos, with traffic police seemingly overlooking the issue.
Moreover, Jalan highlighted that while the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has demolished illegal stalls, they quickly reappear, with patrons parking haphazardly, blocking vehicle flow and causing bumper-to-bumper traffic. He remarked, “The road near Eklavya College, which was supposed to open after the PMC’s plot acquisition, remains partially incomplete. Completing this work could alleviate some of the congestion on Paud Road.”
Vivek Kadu identified the long queue of auto rickshaws outside the CNG pump as a major cause of delays, as they wait to refill and often enter from the wrong side. He added that commuters traveling from Kothrud towards Chandni Chowk frequently drive against traffic, worsening the congestion.
Kothrud Traffic Inspector Savlaram Salgaonkar, who recently took charge, acknowledged the traffic issues and expressed gratitude to Pune Times Mirror for highlighting the violations. He stated, “I am currently working on identifying and addressing these management problems. Immediate action will involve increasing patrolling on the affected stretch of road, with strict enforcement against rule violators.”
As the situation continues to develop, residents hope for effective solutions to ease the traffic woes on Paud Road.
