On May 1, a new flyover was inaugurated on Sinhagad Road, and it was believed that this new flyover would ease the traffic flow in the area. However, commuters are frustrated despite the new flyover.
The frustrated citizens are taking a U-turn from the flyover to avoid the traffic jam, and they claim that the police and administration have failed terribly in managing the traffic flow. This project also reflects the negligence of the authorities.
The nearly two-kilometer-long flyover, starting from Vitthalwadi Arch on Pune-Sinhagad Road and extending to Funtime Theater, was inaugurated on May 1. After the inauguration of this bridge, citizens expected that they would get relief from the traffic jam, but in reality, the problem remains the same.
Residents speak up
Tejas Kumar, a student, said, "Even after the inauguration of the flyover at Funtime Theatre, traffic jams can be seen up to Veer Baji Pasalkar Chowk in Wadgaon. Due to the problems of very short signal timing, narrow intersections, and the huge number of vehicles, the traffic congestion increases during the peak hours between 6 pm and 9 pm."
He aadded, "Tired of the traffic jams and the road being packed by vehicles, the citizens decided to take a U-turn directly in the opposite direction from the flyover, which is extremely dangerous and poses a risk for traffic jams. Due to this, a new traffic jam spot is being created not only on the flyover but also in the Vitthalwadi Kaman area."
Sumit Rai, an IT professional, said, "I commute daily on this road, and we thought this new flyover would bring some relief, but the situation is worrisome as there was not a single traffic policeman at the scene to take action against the citizens or to guide them. The construction of the flyover is only increasing traffic congestion. Then what is the point of this development?"
"We urge the PMC and traffic police to have coordination and take concrete measures to avoid traffic congestion," said Rai.
