The Mumbai-Pune Expressway has reported more traffic than usual since morning. The congestion is particularly heavy between the Lonavala and Khandala areas. Although the much-awaited long weekend is starting tomorrow, the traffic has already worsened near Mumbai and Pune since today itself.
Manan Bhanushali posted on X (formerly Twitter) a video showing very heavy traffic on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Long queues of unmoving vehicles can be seen in it.
He wrote, "Mumbai-Pune Expressway – Pune to Mumbai side jammed between Lonavala and Khandala. Stuck in the same place for the last 15+ minutes; Maps is showing another 30 mins of jam. This is the condition before the long weekend. Can't imagine what will happen tomorrow."
Tomorrow, 15th August, Friday, is a national holiday for Indian Independence Day. After that, the weekend follows. Since a three-day long weekend is there, many people have planned their trips to tourist places.
Lonavala and Khandala, two famous places on the north side of Pune District, always attract people whenever there is a short break. Strategically placed between Mumbai and Pune, people from both metro cities go there to enjoy the weekend.
Experts claim that with the long weekend beginning tomorrow, traffic near key areas like Sinhagad, Mulshi, Mahabaleshwar, Bhimashankar, Khadakwasla, Tamhini Ghat, and Varandha Ghat could also be heavy.
Police have urged citizens to plan beforehand and be ready to face traffic congestion in these areas.
