Pune: Travelers on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway are facing severe delays on Saturday (December 21) due to heavy congestion. The expressway, a vital link between Mumbai and Pune, is seeing slow-moving traffic, particularly near Khandala Ghat, where fog and an increase in vehicles have compounded the problem.
Significant traffic congestion has also been reported on the Pune-Satara Road. Poor road conditions near Khed Shivapur toll plaza have led to queues stretching up to 5 kilometers. Commuters traveling between Pune and Satara are experiencing delays, with vehicles moving at a crawl.
Weekend traffic is a routine challenge on the expressway as thousands of citizens travel between the two cities. However, today’s congestion appears worse than usual, as thick fog in the Khandala Ghat area has reduced visibility.
The back-to-back holidays for Christmas and New Year have added to the woes of commuters traveling to their hometowns. Many families heading out for celebrations are facing frustration due to prolonged traffic jams.
Other Affected Routes:
Traffic jams have been reported near Ranjangaon on the Pune-Nagar Road.
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway near Lonavala is also experiencing slow traffic due to fog and high vehicle volume.
Travelers are advised to plan their journeys with these conditions in mind and consider alternative routes to avoid traffic.
Suggested Alternative Routes for Pune-Satara Road:
Katraj Bypass: Use the Katraj bypass instead of the Katraj tunnel for relatively faster movement.
Via Sinhagad Road: Travelers can opt for the Sinhagad Road route via Khadakwasla to Nasrapur or Khandala Phata.
Wadgaon-Nasrapur Route: This route via Dhayari offers an alternative for reaching Nasrapur.
Bhor Route to Satara: While narrower and hilly, this route is less congested.
MSRDC Roads: Utilize Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation’s local routes connecting highways for better access.