Pune: Sinhagad Fort and the cluster of Khadakwasla dams continue to be among the most cherished getaways for Pune residents, drawing large crowds throughout the year, especially as the monsoon nears. The lush landscape and inviting weather make these sites particularly appealing during this season. However, the increasing number of visitors has once again highlighted the persistent issue of traffic congestion along the narrow Sinhagad Road, the main access route from the city.
This past Sunday saw a surge in visitors eager to enjoy the overcast skies and cool breeze brought by the approaching rains. The heavy turnout, however, caused prolonged traffic jams stretching from Donje to Khadakwasla. Many vehicles were stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic for hours, with the gridlock beginning around 6:30 pm and showing little improvement even by 9 pm.
The congestion created significant difficulties for families, elderly individuals, and daily commuters alike, many of whom found themselves stranded with limited access to basic amenities such as drinking water and toilets. Citizens expressed their disappointment over the lack of traffic control measures, especially considering that this scenario plays out regularly during peak tourist seasons.
Despite the recurring nature of these jams, there was no official communication from traffic authorities as of late Sunday night regarding any plans to mitigate future congestion. With weekend visits likely to increase as the monsoon sets in, Pune residents are urging local officials to implement long-term solutions, such as alternative routes and improved traffic management systems, to prevent such disruptions and safeguard public convenience.
