Commuters and transport operators traveling between Mumbai and Pune face significant traffic disruptions this week as authorities implement restrictions on heavy and large vehicles. These measures, in effect until October 20, 2026, target specific stretches of the old Mumbai-Pune highway to manage the anticipated rush from the Navratri festival at Shri Ekvira Devi temple and the upcoming Dasara holiday.
Key Restrictions and Affected Routes
The Pune district collector has issued an order under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, outlining two primary areas with heavy vehicle restrictions:
1. Karla Phata to Shri Ekvira Devi Temple
- Heavy and large vehicles are prohibited from using the road between Karla Phata and the foothills of Shri Ekvira Devi temple.
- This restriction is active around the clock until October 20, 2026.
- Height barriers have been installed at Karla Phata to prevent restricted vehicles from proceeding towards the temple during the festival period.
2. Kusgaon Budruk Toll Plaza to Vadgaon Phata
- On the old Mumbai-Pune highway, heavy and large vehicles are banned from traveling between Kusgaon Budruk toll plaza in Lonavala and Vadgaon Phata in Vadgaon Maval.
- This prohibition is enforced daily from 6 am to 10 pm, specifically between October 15 and October 19, 2026.
It is important to note that these restrictions apply specifically to heavy and large vehicles and do not constitute a blanket closure of the entire highway for private cars.
Alternative Routes for Heavy Vehicles
To mitigate congestion, authorities have designated alternative routes for heavy vehicles:
- Towards Pune: Heavy vehicles on the old highway will be diverted from Kusgaon Budruk toll plaza onto the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, proceeding towards Pune city via Urse toll plaza.
- Towards Mumbai: Heavy vehicles will be diverted from Talegaon Phata in Vadgaon, directed through Urse Ghat, and onto the expressway.
While these diversions aim to regulate traffic on the old highway, the increased volume of heavy vehicles on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway could lead to additional congestion, particularly on the Mumbai-Lonavala stretch.
Why the Expected Traffic Surge?
The anticipated heavy traffic is primarily linked to the Navratri festival at Shri Ekvira Devi temple, which attracts a significant number of pilgrims. Additionally, the Dasara holiday on Tuesday, October 20, contributes to increased holiday travel, with many extending their breaks, leading to a surge in vehicle movement between Mumbai, Lonavala, and Pune.
Shivaji Pawar, Superintendent of Police for the Highway Traffic Police's Pune range, confirmed that extensive traffic management arrangements have been discussed with Pune Rural Police. A substantial deployment of highway traffic police personnel is expected on the ground, especially during the weekend.
Highway police are also intensifying patrolling and monitoring lane discipline on the expressway. Drivers of heavy vehicles failing to adhere to lane rules, including restrictions on occupying the first two lanes, may face fines.
Advice for Mumbai-Pune Commuters
Travelers planning journeys between Mumbai and Pune are strongly advised to:
- Check real-time traffic updates before commencing their travel.
- Allow for extra travel time, particularly during the weekend and around October 20.
- Consider using trains and public transport wherever possible to avoid road congestion.
- Postpone non-essential road journeys until the festival-related rush subsides if schedules are flexible.
While private cars are not subject to the heavy vehicle restrictions, all motorists should be prepared for potential delays on both the old highway and the expressway due to the diversions and overall increase in traffic volume.