Koregaon Bhima Vijaystambha Traffic Updates: Changes from Dec 31 to Jan 1
Traffic changes announced for Koregaon Bhima Shaurya Day; detailed parking and route plans revealed to manage heavy pilgrim turnout
Pune, December 30, 2024: The Pune Rural Police has announced significant traffic modifications to manage the influx of lakhs of citizens attending the 207th Koregaon Bhima Shaurya Day celebrations. The Vijayastambha Salutation Ceremony, a key event commemorating the historic battle of Koregaon Bhima, is scheduled for January 1, 2025. To avoid traffic congestion on the Pune-Nagar highway and surrounding roads, diversions will be enforced from 2 PM on December 31, 2024, until 12 PM on January 1, 2025.
In light of the Parbhani incident, precautionary measures are being undertaken to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow. Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh emphasized that comprehensive planning, including traffic and parking arrangements, has been conducted under the guidance of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
Traffic Diversions in Detail
From December 31, 2 PM, to January 1, 12 PM:
- Pune to Koregaon Bhima: Vehicles should use the Kharadi bypass, proceed via Mundhwa, Magarpatta Chowk, Pune-Solapur Road, Kedgaon Chauphula, Nhawara, and Shirur.
- Alandi and Chakan: Motorists on Solapur Road must reroute through Hadapsar, Magarpatta Chowk, and Kharadi bypass to Vishrantwadi.
- Mumbai to Pune: Heavy vehicles should take Vadgaon Maval, Chakan, Khed, Manchar, Narayangaon, Alephata to enter Pune. Light vehicles can proceed via Pabal and Shirur.
- Kolhapur, Sangli, and Satara Travelers: Vehicles entering via Mantarwadi Phata or Magarpatta Chowk must proceed through Kedgaon Chauphula.
- Alandi-Tulapur Bridge: The Indrayani River Bridge is closed for heavy traffic; only light vehicles will be permitted.
- Wagholi Traffic Restrictions: Heavy traffic towards Wagholi via Vishrantwadi and Lohgaon will remain closed.
Parking Facilities
To accommodate pilgrims and visitors, parking zones have been designated at the following locations:
- Aapale Ghar Lonikand
- Buddh Vasti
- Tulapur Fata and nearby areas
- Phulgaon Sainiki School Ground
- Khandoba Mal, Perne Phata
- Theur Road (Somvanshi Academy)
- Other designated parking zones near major hotels and lodges.
Motorists are advised to follow instructions and park only in the allocated areas. Signage will guide pilgrims to parking spots and alternate routes.
Administrative Oversight
Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh emphasized the importance of streamlined traffic management during a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Discussions revolved around logistical arrangements, including:
- Parking and traffic planning.
- Adequate water and health facilities.
- Enhanced safety measures to avoid incidents like the Parbhani tragedy.
“Public cooperation is essential for the success of this historic event. We urge citizens to plan their travel accordingly and follow the diversion signs placed at critical junctions,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police, Amol Zende.
