Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 29: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has shot off a letter to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, urging immediate intervention to decongest Pune’s mounting traffic chaos by widening three crucial national highways passing through the region.

In his appeal, Pawar has sought the widening of National Highway 60 (Nashik Phata to Khed), National Highway 65 (Hadapsar to Yavat), and National Highway 548D (Talegaon-Chakan-Shikrapur) — arterial roads that connect Pune to major industrial and residential hubs. Currently facing excessive vehicular pressure, these roads have reportedly outlived their existing capacities.

Highlighting the urgency, Pawar pointed out that NH 60 and NH 65, both four-lane roads, should be upgraded to six lanes, while NH 548D — a vital two-lane industrial connector — must be widened to four lanes.

“These highways traverse dense zones housing educational institutions, industrial estates, hospitals, residential colonies, and key transport units,” he said. “The burden on these roads has surged, especially during peak hours, leading to traffic gridlocks and safety hazards.”

He warned that unchecked congestion is not only inconveniencing daily commuters but is also disrupting industrial logistics and Pune’s economic rhythm.

The letter further noted that widening these stretches would ease current traffic woes and also serve as a support mechanism during the construction phase of the proposed elevated corridors. In particular, the Talegaon-Chakan-Shikrapur route could function as a vital alternative during the final stages of highway development works.

Pawar concluded by urging the Centre to swiftly clear administrative approvals and allocate necessary funds, asserting that timely action would offer major relief to Pune’s urban and industrial commute.