PIMPRI-CHINCHWAD — In an effort to tackle worsening traffic snarls, Pimpri-Chinchwad Police have expanded restrictions on heavy vehicle movement by two hours during peak travel times. The revised regulations came into effect on Sunday following an order from Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Vivek Patil.
Extended Ban Timings
Heavy vehicles are now barred from entering key city areas during two extended windows: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, up from the earlier restrictions of 8:00–11:00 AM and 5:00–9:00 PM. These rules apply across major routes such as Talawade, Nigdi, Chinchwad, Bhosari, Hinjawadi, Sangvi, Wakad, Bawdhan, Pimpri, and Dehu Road.
Full-Day Restrictions in Congested Zones
In extremely congested stretches like Dighi, Dighi-Alandi, and Talawade traffic divisions, the police have enforced a 24-hour ban on heavy vehicles. Only essential service vehicles—including milk tankers, emergency supplies, and military vehicles—are exempt.
Reason Behind the Move
The extension comes in response to continued congestion, despite earlier time blocks. “Heavy vehicles are still worsening traffic flow, especially during peak hours,” said DCP Patil. With ongoing urban development, metro work, industrial activity, and religious footfall, the region’s infrastructure—particularly along the Mumbai-Pune and Pune-Nashik highways—is under mounting stress.
Industry Concerns
The decision has drawn criticism from several quarters:
Builders and developers warn of construction delays and rising costs due to supply disruptions. CREDAI members expressed frustration over what they called a decision taken “without stakeholder consultation.”
Truck operators argue the changes will choke logistics, citing the absence of viable alternate routes. The All India Motor Transport Congress flagged serious concerns about economic impact.
Road Safety in Focus
The ban is part of broader road safety reforms. The Katraj-Dehu Road bypass, a vital corridor connecting IT hubs, has seen 31 fatalities in 2023 and 15 deaths already in 2025, many linked to heavy vehicles causing bottlenecks in narrow stretches.
Enforcement Measures
Police will put up multilingual signage (Marathi, Hindi, and English) at all key entry points, including the Urse Toll Plaza. Strict monitoring will be carried out at all major junctions, and violators will face fines under the Mfotor Vehicles Act.
