The closure is necessary to safely carry out controlled blasting operations, which are part of the road-widening process for the Palkhi Highway. The project involves expanding the existing road into a four-lane highway with dedicated walkways for the annual Palkhi procession, which sees lakhs of devotees travel from Pune to Pandharpur.
The Dive Ghat stretch is a critical segment of this route, notorious for its sharp curves, steep gradients, and history of accidents and congestion. Controlled blasting is required to remove rocky outcrops and widen the road, ensuring safer and smoother passage for both daily commuters and Palkhi participants.
Dive Ghat will be closed for short durations each day during the blasting work. Authorities will announce specific timings in advance to minimize inconvenience. Alternative routes will be provided for vehicles traveling between Hadapsar, Saswad, and surrounding areas. Commuters are advised to follow traffic updates and plan their journeys accordingly. Arrangements are in place to ensure emergency vehicles can pass through or be rerouted as needed.
The widening of the Palkhi Marg (NH-965) is a major infrastructure initiative, including:
Four-laning of the road from Dive Ghat to Mohol
Dedicated walkways for the Palkhi procession
Service roads, underpasses, and flyovers to improve connectivity and safety
This project is not only aimed at facilitating the annual Palkhi pilgrimage but also at addressing long-standing traffic woes for local commuters.
The project has seen significant cooperation from local residents, especially in areas like Phursungi, where many have voluntarily removed encroachments to facilitate the widening work. This spirit of collaboration has helped accelerate progress and reduce delays.
Authorities are taking precautions to ensure the safety of workers, commuters, and nearby residents during blasting operations. Environmental safeguards are also in place, with tree plantations and green highway initiatives accompanying the road expansion.
The widened highway will ease bottlenecks, particularly during the Palkhi season, and improve daily traffic flow. Smoother gradients and better road engineering will reduce accident risks along the Dive Ghat stretch. Improved infrastructure will support the influx of devotees and tourists, benefiting local businesses and communities.
