Pune: Subway Construction Planned At Rakshak Chowk To Alleviate Aundh To Ravet BRTS Route Congestion

Pimple Nilakh, 2nd March 2024: A subway is set to be constructed at Rakshak Chowk in Pimple Nilakh along the Aundh to Ravet BRTS route, offering a promising resolution to the persistent traffic congestion on this thoroughfare.

The BRT route, extending from Ravet to Kiwale, originates at the Rajiv Gandhi Bridge over the Mula River, connecting Sangvi and Aundh. A decade ago, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) undertook significant infrastructure enhancements, widening the road and establishing the BRT route, main artery, and service road.

Over the past two years, additional improvements have been implemented, including the construction of sidewalks featuring cycle paths and beautification efforts with tree plantations along the sides. This vital route spans from Y Junction to connect Wakad, Hinjawadi, and the Mumbai-Bangalore National Highway. Furthermore, it provides access to Sai Chowk, Wakad, Pimple Saudagar, and Pimpri, as well as the old Pune-Mumbai and Pune-Nashik highways. Commuters from Kalewadi Phata can travel to Wakad, Kalewadi, Chinchwad, Bhosari MIDC, and connect to Pradhikaran via Thergaon, Chinchwad, and Walhekarwadi.

The road also serves as a crucial link to the newly developed areas of Tathawade, Punawale, and Ravet. Notably, Baner and Balewadi areas are easily accessible from Pimple Nilakh. This thoroughfare witnesses high traffic volume, accommodating employees commuting to the Information and Technology Park in Hinjawadi, in addition to residents travelling from PCMC to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) areas. Recognizing the escalating vehicle numbers causing persistent congestion at Rakshak Chowk, PCMC has proactively planned the construction of a subway as a strategic solution to alleviate traffic issues.

The 18-meter wide road stretching from Rakshak Chowk to Pimple Nilakh Gaothan through the Defense Department limits is equipped with a double path, forming a bifurcation. This well-traversed route features footpaths on both sides and is safeguarded by a protective wall. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) initiated a tender process for the construction of a subway on this thoroughfare, with an estimated cost of Rs 7 crore 62 lakh eight thousand 213. The lowest bid, amounting to Rs 5 crore 73 lakh 10 thousand 806, was submitted by HC Kataria company.

Following the approval from PCMC Commissioner and Administrator Shekhar Singh, an agreement with HC Kataria has been greenlit, paving the way for the commencement of subway construction. PCMC City Engineer Makarand Nikam highlighted the escalating traffic on the Sanghvi-Ravet BRT line and the strategic plan to alleviate congestion at Rakshak Society Chowk by introducing the subway. The upcoming construction will span from Rakshak Chowk to Pimple Nilakh Road, and the project is set to commence shortly.