Pune: The long-awaited road widening project from Baba Bhide Bridge to Erandwane via Rajput Vasahat along the riverbed is set to be completed soon, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion in the area and enhance connectivity for commuters, particularly two-wheeler riders.

To facilitate the expansion, portions of residential buildings housing government officers and select areas of Ota Vasahat are being acquired. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has assured that the work will be completed within the next week.

The riverbed roads serve as a crucial link for residents commuting from central Pune to Karvenagar, Kothrud, Warje, and Sinhagad Road. The stretch between Baba Bhide Bridge and Rajput Settlement is extensively used by two-wheeler riders to access Pune’s western suburbs.

Currently, the road from Deccan Gymkhana to Rajput Settlement narrows near Shaheed Bhagat Singh Mitra Mandal, leading to frequent traffic congestion. The presence of residential structures in Ota Vasahat and a society housing government officers has contributed to the bottleneck.

Project Execution and Challenges

Two years ago, PMC undertook widening of the road on the opposite side, but the expansion of the Rajput Settlement to Erandwane stretch remained incomplete. Initial resistance from Ota Vasahat residents—who feared displacement while the government officers’ society remained unaffected—delayed progress.

To resolve the issue, PMC’s road department held discussions with representatives of the government officers’ society. Former IAS officer Shekhar Gaikwad assisted in negotiations, leading to a breakthrough in the project’s execution.

According to Aniruddha Pawaskar, Head of the PMC Road Department, necessary land adjustments are being made within the government officers’ society premises, with a boundary wall being constructed to mark the revised space. Additionally, Ota Vasahat residents will be provided with newly built steps to accommodate the required land acquisition.

The road is being widened on both sides, ensuring smoother traffic flow and reducing congestion. The project is in its final stages, and once completed, it is expected to significantly improve mobility in the area.

Expected Benefits:

• Reduced traffic congestion along Baba Bhide Bridge and Rajput Settlement

• Faster and safer commute for two-wheeler riders and local residents

• Enhanced connectivity between central Pune and western suburbs

• Minimized bottlenecks at key junctions