Pune: To facilitate the construction of a flyover at Katraj Chowk, the Pune Traffic Police, in collaboration with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), have implemented a new traffic diversion plan from December 4.

A dedicated team of 137 personnel, including 43 from Bharati Vidyapeeth Police Station, has been deployed. Additionally, six officers and 150 wardens have been appointed to assist with traffic regulation.

The diversion plan prohibits heavy vehicles from passing through Katraj Chowk, a measure that has significantly improved the traffic situation.

Police personnel from various stations, including Vishrambaug, Mundhwa, Sahakarnagar, Wanawadi, Cantonment, Ambegaon, Kharadi-Chandannagar, and Market Yard, have been reassigned to manage the situation at strategic points.

The construction is expected to last 60 days, and the additional deployment will remain in place during this period.

Senior officials are overseeing the arrangement, with Assistant Commissioner of Police Atulkumar Navgire acting as the in-charge officer, supported by Assistant Police Inspector Shilpa Lambe as the co-in-charge.

Traffic personnel and wardens will manage the flow of vehicles in two shifts at key locations, including Katraj Chowk, Katraj Bypass, Morebaug Satara Road, Wonders City, Navale Bridge, ISKCON Temple Chowk, and Katraj Old Ghat.

Earlier, two experimental traffic diversion trials were conducted, and shortcomings were identified. Based on the observations, additional personnel have been deployed to ensure smooth traffic flow.

“This meticulously planned diversion strategy has allowed us to effectively manage traffic at Katraj Chowk during the flyover construction,” stated Amol Zhende, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Traffic Department, Pune.