Pune’s long-standing traffic woes took a serious turn on Friday when an ambulance was stuck for several minutes in a heavy jam on Paud Road, Kothrud, leaving the patient’s relatives visibly distressed.
The incident occurred between the Ideal Colony Metro station and Paud Phata junction during the morning rush hour. With Ganesh festival preparations underway, roads have become narrower due to temporary mandap structures, official and unofficial roadside stalls, and haphazardly parked vehicles. In several areas, footpaths and road space have been encroached upon, leaving little room for smooth traffic flow.
Local residents and commuters expressed frustration, urging citizens to avoid blocking roads and calling on traffic police, the municipal corporation, and Ganesh mandals to ensure that routes remain open during the festive season. They also stressed the need for volunteers to help regulate traffic during peak hours.
A commuter who witnessed the incident said that despite the ambulance’s siren, vehicles could not make way in the gridlock. “The patient’s relatives looked anxious and helpless. There should be some system in place to give ambulances a clear path during emergencies,” he added.