The Bhide Bridge in Pune, closed since May for metro-related pedestrian bridge work, will reopen for traffic by August 20, ahead of Ganeshotsav.
Commissioner Nawal Kishore Ram assured that this reopening aims to ease congestion and ensure smoother travel during the festive season.
The metro service is also expected to run until 2 AM during Ganeshotsav to facilitate better connectivity to core city areas.
Pune, 22 July 2025: The Bhide Bridge, which has been closed since May due to construction of a pedestrian bridge connecting Narayan Peth to the nearby metro station, will be reopened for traffic by August 20. Municipal Commissioner Nawal Kishore Ram confirmed this during a recent meeting held to review preparations for the upcoming Ganeshotsav festival.
The bridge had been shut to facilitate metro construction by MahaMetro, particularly the section running through the Mutha River between Khandojibaba Chowk and the PMC headquarters. To improve access from Narayan Peth and Shaniwar Peth, pedestrian bridges are being constructed near Vartak Garden and Bhide Bridge.
However, the bridge closure has caused inconvenience to both motorists, who have had to take long detours, and pedestrians facing restricted access.
With the city expecting large crowds from areas like Kothrud, Nagar Road, and Pimpri-Chinchwad during Ganeshotsav, ensuring smooth travel is crucial. Commissioner Ram stated that reopening Bhide Bridge before the festival is a priority to prevent traffic snarls and improve connectivity for devotees.
In addition, as metro services now run through the city’s core via the underground route, people will be able to directly access key locations like Kasba Peth and Mandai stations for festival visits. To encourage public transport usage and reduce traffic, Ram added that the Pune Metro is likely to operate until 2 AM during the festival days.
These measures are aimed at managing the city’s infrastructure and easing the movement of thousands of visitors expected during one of Pune’s biggest cultural celebrations.
