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Key Points

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had to cut short his inspection of Pune’s proposed underground tunnel project due to worsening traffic congestion. The project, aimed at decongesting Shaniwar Peth, includes two tunnels spanning 2.5 km to divert traffic from Shivaji and Bajirao Roads. BJP MLA Hemant Rasane clarified that despite the abrupt end, Gadkari acknowledged the urgency of the project. The minister assured follow-up discussions to advance the infrastructure plan.

Key Points: Nitin Gadkari Pune Tunnel Inspection Cut Short Over Traffic Woes

  • Gadkari reviewed Pune's proposed 2.5 km underground tunnel project
  • Tunnels aim to ease congestion on Shivaji and Bajirao Roads
  • Inspection shortened due to traffic and security concerns
  • BJP MLA Rasane assured further discussions with the minister
2 min read

Traffic concerns cut short Nitin Gadkari's Pune tunnel project inspection

Union Minister Gadkari's Pune tunnel project review halted due to traffic congestion, with BJP MLA Rasane confirming follow-up discussions.

"The minister witnessed firsthand the urgent need for the tunnel in the congested old city core – Hemant Rasane"

Pune, June 24

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, was compelled to cut short his inspection visit to Maharashtra's Pune on Monday following an advisory from the police administration citing growing traffic congestion in the city.

Gadkari was scheduled to review a proposed four-lane underground tunnel project designed to ease traffic in Pune's congested old city area, specifically Shaniwar Peth. The plan includes construction of two tunnels -- one stretching from Shaniwarwada to Swargate, and another from Sarasbaug to Shaniwarwada -- covering a total length of 2.5 kilometres.

The tunnels are intended to serve as alternative routes to the heavily congested Shivaji Road and Bajirao Road. Currently, Shivaji Road carries traffic from Shaniwarwada to Swargate, while Bajirao Road handles the return flow.

The inspection was organised at the request of Kasba MLA Hemant Rasane, who accompanied the minister to the main gate of Shaniwarwada in Shaniwar Peth -- where the two one-way roads intersect.

The visit was reportedly cancelled after Gadkari got stuck in traffic. However, BJP MLA Hemant Rasane clarified the situation, saying, "We showed him where the project is expected to begin and briefed him in detail. He assured us he would study the matter further and call for a follow-up discussion soon."

"In view of the growing traffic, to avoid inconvenience to citizens and keeping the minister's security in mind, the police administration suggested the inspection be cut short," Rasane added. "The minister agreed and conveyed that the site visit could be rescheduled. He encouraged us to meet him later for further discussion."

Rasane further mentioned that there had been "some miscommunication with the police and the civic administration," as they were not informed in advance about the nature of the inspection.

Despite the shortened visit, Rasane said it was still productive. "The minister witnessed firsthand the urgent need for the tunnel in the congested old city core," he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Irony at its best! The minister came to inspect traffic solutions but had to cancel due to traffic 😅 Pune really needs this tunnel project ASAP. The old city areas are choked during peak hours. Hope they fast-track the approvals!
P
Priya M.
As a Pune resident, I appreciate Gadkari sir's efforts but this shows poor coordination between authorities. How can they not plan a VIP visit properly? The traffic situation here is no secret. They should have arranged early morning inspection.
A
Amit S.
Underground tunnels sound fancy but what about maintenance costs? Pune's PMC struggles with basic road repairs. Maybe we should first improve public transport and pedestrian infrastructure. More flyovers just shift the problem elsewhere.
S
Sunita R.
Good that Gadkari ji experienced our daily struggle! Maybe now he'll understand why we Puneites are always stressed about commuting. The tunnel is needed but please don't forget about heritage conservation in Shaniwar Peth area 🙏
V
Vikram J.
Instead of tunnels, why not develop ring roads around the city? Look at how Hyderabad and Bengaluru managed their traffic. Pune's growth is haphazard - need comprehensive planning, not piecemeal solutions. #ThinkLongTerm
N
Neha P.
The traffic mess in Pune is due to uncontrolled vehicle growth and poor traffic management. Tunnels are welcome but what about enforcing parking rules and improving bus services? We need multi-pronged approach. Metro work is already causing enough disruption!

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