Pune: In light of the holiday season, the Pune-Mumbai Expressway is witnessing an unprecedented surge in traffic as thousands of tourists head to their destinations. The number of vehicles has exceeded 100,000 daily, a significant rise of 40,000 from the usual count.

To address potential congestion, the Highway Police have introduced innovative measures, including parking hours for heavy vehicles and a 30-minute block system, while intensifying patrols to ensure smooth traffic flow.

The holiday rush has increased traffic on all major routes surrounding Pune, with the Pune-Mumbai Expressway being the most affected. Heavy vehicles are now required to halt for three hours on designated sections near Palaspe and Amity University areas.

This measure allows light vehicles to utilize the cleared lanes. Morning hours see a focus on traffic moving toward Mumbai, while in Borghat, a 30-minute traffic block is enforced. During this block, all Mumbai-bound vehicles are stopped, and those heading from Mumbai to Pune are allowed to pass using both lanes. After the block, normal traffic resumes.

To maintain discipline and prevent lane-cutting by heavy vehicles, Highway Police are conducting regular patrols. Violators are being penalized to ensure compliance with traffic rules.

Additional Lanes on Satara Route

The Satara-Pune route has also seen a significant uptick in vehicle numbers. To manage this, the National Highways Authority has added four new lanes, increasing the total to 14. On the Pune-Nashik road, similar measures are being planned to address traffic congestion.

“We are taking every possible step to ensure smooth traffic on the expressway. From parking hours to blocks and additional patrols, we are working diligently. Additional police personnel have been stationed at key points to manage the situation. These measures will remain in effect until January 2,” said Tanaji Chikhale, Superintendent of Police, Raigad, Highway Police.