Pune: The Katraj-Kondhwa Road, a vital route and designated national highway, remains incomplete despite six years of work. The 3.5-kilometer widening project, initially intended to enhance connectivity, has seen only 40% progress since its commencement in 2018.
The widening project, planned to increase the road’s width to 84 meters, faced significant setbacks due to incomplete land acquisition. Without securing the necessary plots, the civic body proceeded with construction, leading to an average annual completion rate of just 6.5%.
The project, initially estimated to cost ₹750 crore, has already consumed ₹61 crore, with escalating costs due to delays. The municipal corporation’s recent decision to proceed with the 84-meter widening plan will further raise expenses. Land acquisition costs alone are now expected to increase by ₹100–₹120 crore, pushing the total project budget significantly higher.
Encroachments on already acquired land have further delayed construction, requiring repeated removal efforts. This, combined with indecision over the road’s width—50 meters or 84 meters—has hindered consistent progress.
Incomplete road sections have led to worsening traffic congestion and pollution levels, with Katraj-Kondhwa Road becoming one of Pune’s most polluted thoroughfares. Residents face daily commuting challenges, and at the current pace, the road’s completion may take another 7-8 years.
Timeline of Developments
2018: Project launched with plans for an 84-meter-wide road.
2019: Budget revised to ₹280 crore due to stalled land acquisition; road width reduced to 50 meters.
2020: Government approved ₹140 crore, covering half the reduced budget.
2023: Decision to revert to the 84-meter plan, seeking an additional ₹231 crore.
