Traffic flow changes at Savitribai Phule University Circle brings relief to Pune motorists

There was also some confusion among the road users about the changes and traffic wardens were seen having a tough time explaining and urging them to follow the new traffic flow.

Starting from Monday, the Pune traffic police imposed a complete ban on very heavy heavy vehicles, line containers and trailers and introduced new road diversions on the roads that lead to the junction.

It also created a buffer stretch on Baner Road. This is the fourth set of major traffic flow changes that are being implemented by the police since the construction of a double-storey flyover began in late 2022.

Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar had visited the junction on February 29 and had given strict instructions to the officials Pune Metro, Pune Municipal Corporation, and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) to hasten some works that were leading to slowing down of traffic.

“The flow has definitely improved,” Sandip Bhandwalkar, a traffic constable at the junction said.

Bhandwalkar and five-six traffic wardens were deployed at the junction to manage the traffic on Monday evening.

“The roads have been widened in the junction by shifting the barricades and additional stretches have been opened.

There’s some confusion and it’s expected. But we had to manage the traffic manually by taking stock of the traffic on different roads. We couldn’t rely on traffic signals,” said Bhandwalkar.

A warden at the spot said that the biggest challenge for them was to deal with people who refuse to follow the traffic instructions and if hauled up enter into altercations.

Manisha Gore, a motorist who was heading towards Shivajinagar, said, “I was surprised to see comparatively smooth traffic today. Hope it remains like this.”

SS Pathan, Police Inspector (Traffic), Chaturshringi Division, said that although the new plan is seemingly working, it’s important for its success that motorists co-operate with the traffic staff.

“We understand that there’s some confusion in the beginning and that will iron out as people get used to the changes but it’s very important that motorists co-operate with our staff and don’t violate the laid down traffic route,” said PI Pathan.