Pune: Waterlogging on Mumbai-Pune Expressway on Sunday Causes Traffic Disruptions
A heavy downpour lasting around 15 minutes on Sunday afternoon caused significant traffic disruptions on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway. The rain, which began around 4 PM, led to knee-deep waterlogging on the route between Amrutanjan Point and the Bor Ghat tunnel, severely impacting vehicular movement.
Key Points of the Incident
- Affected Area: Amrutanjan Bridge near Khopoli, Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
- Impact: Vehicles were forced to navigate through knee-deep water, causing major delays.
- Assistance: Traffic police were deployed to guide drivers through the submerged section.
According to expressway authorities, the heavy rain developed quickly, resulting in both mist and significant water accumulation on the Pune corridor of the expressway. A senior police officer from the Highway Safety Patrol (HSP) noted that the heavy rain, which lasted almost a quarter of an hour, led to waterlogging, necessitating a temporary halt in vehicular movement as a safety measure. The traffic was stopped for approximately 20 minutes before resuming around 5 PM once the water had drained.
Authorities’ Response
Deputy Commissioner of Police, HSP, Gajanan Tompe, commented on the situation, stating, “Vehicles are moving at a slow speed in the Khandala ghat section following the downpour. Our teams are manning traffic at the location.” The presence of traffic police helped to manage the slow-moving traffic and guide drivers safely through the affected areas.
Wider Impact
In addition to the issues on the expressway, the Chinchvali-Borghar route adjacent to the Mumbai-Goa Highway also faced severe waterlogging due to continuous rainfall, resulting in river flooding. This has completely isolated Chinchvali village from other villages in Khed Taluka, prompting the Khed Taluka administration to monitor the situation closely.
A video has surfaced showing vehicles struggling through the submerged section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway near the Bor Ghat tunnel. The low-lying area around the Amrutanjan Bridge accumulated water rapidly, making it challenging for vehicles to pass without assistance.
Check the video here:
Rainfall Statistics
Lonavala and surrounding regions experienced torrential rains, recording significant rainfall over the past 24 hours:
- Khandala: 264mm
- Lonavala: 241.5mm
- Tamhini: 315mm
- Dawdi: 222mm
- Bhira: 227mm
- Mulshi: 118mm
- Pawana: 132mm
- Temghar: 105mm
The extreme rainfall has led to a delightful monsoon atmosphere for tourists in Lonavala, but it has also resulted in increased water flow at Bhushi Dam. The dam, which is already at capacity, has seen a strong current over its steps. For safety reasons, the administration has decided to close Bhushi Dam to tourists until the rain and water flow intensity decreases.
Conclusion
The waterlogging on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by the monsoon season. Authorities are actively working to manage traffic and ensure safety, while the affected regions continue to monitor and respond to the ongoing weather conditions.
