Ajit Pawar requests immediate expansion of three national highways, NH 60, NH 65, and NH 548D, passing through Pune, to ease traffic congestion.
These roads are crucial connectors between Pune and major residential, industrial, and educational zones, but are currently under heavy traffic pressure.
Pawar seeks Centre’s approval and funding for road widening, warning that delays could hamper commuter safety and Pune’s economic growth.
Pune, 29 July 2025: To address rising traffic congestion in Pune and its surrounding areas, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has written to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, urging urgent expansion of three major highways, NH 60, NH 65 and NH 548D.
In his letter, Pawar called for the widening of the Nashik Phata–Khed section of National Highway 60 and the Hadapsar–Yavat stretch of National Highway 65 from four lanes to six. He also sought an upgrade of the Talegaon–Chakan–Shikrapur route on National Highway 548D from two lanes to four
These highways connect Pune city to key industrial and residential zones, but increasing vehicular pressure has led to frequent traffic jams and safety concerns for daily commuters. Pawar pointed out that these roads pass through high-density areas with educational institutions, hospitals, petroleum units, and automobile industries, making smooth movement of people and goods essential.
He noted that the existing road width is no longer sufficient to handle the growing traffic, especially during peak hours. The congestion, he said, is not only causing daily inconvenience but also affecting Pune’s economic and industrial operations.
Pawar also highlighted that the proposed road widening could support the future construction of elevated corridors and help reduce traffic load on Pune’s internal roads. He added that the NH 548D stretch, which cuts through Pune’s industrial belt, could serve as a temporary alternative route during the elevated highway project’s final tender stages.
In conclusion, Pawar urged the central government to approve the proposals swiftly and release the required funds and administrative approvals. He expressed confidence that prompt action could offer much-needed relief to Pune’s urban and industrial zones battling long-standing traffic issues.
