Pune: Traffic congestion at Gultekdi Market Yard remains a major concern, despite various measures taken by the Pune Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC). Even on days with lower produce arrivals, roads inside the market remain clogged, causing inconvenience to traders, transporters, and customers.
A major factor contributing to this issue is unauthorized roadside selling, with vendors extending their stalls far beyond the permitted limit, blocking road space and slowing down vehicular movement. Additionally, motorcycles are being allowed entry before the designated time, further adding to the congestion.
At Shivneri Road, double-lane parking of two-wheelers and encroachment by unauthorized vendors on both sides have worsened the traffic situation. The wholesale market and other trading zones also suffer from similar congestion, yet security personnel are often missing from critical points. While security staff can be seen stationed at entrance gates, they are largely absent from internal market roads, where the congestion is most severe.
Market stall owners are officially allowed to sell their produce within a 15-foot area in front of their shops. However, some traders are violating this limit, extending up to 20 feet or even halfway onto the roads, reducing passage width and affecting traffic movement. Although the APMC security staff impose penalties on occasion, these measures remain temporary, and the situation remains unchanged.
Along with traffic congestion, theft incidents are increasing in the market. Stolen produce—including fruits, onions, potatoes, vegetables, and jaggery—has been reported, along with shop break-ins, damage to CCTV cameras, and theft of air conditioner units and security equipment. Multiple security contracts have been reassigned, but the issue persists.
To tackle these challenges, the Maharashtra Security Force has been assigned to oversee security at the Market Yard. However, when contacted, Market Committee Secretary Dr. Rajaram Dhondkar was unavailable for comment.
