Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to open the historic Tank Road for regular traffic to ease congestion during the ongoing construction of a flyover and grade separator at Vishrantwadi’s Mukundrao Ambedkar Chowk.
Originally built decades ago to transport military tanks from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Dighi to the 512 Army Base Workshop in Khadki, the 10-kilometer-long road was once an exclusive military testing route. Over the years, rapid urbanisation and hawker encroachments transformed it into a bustling public corridor.
PMC officials stated that the road will be asphalted and widened after obtaining necessary permissions from the Central government. “This alternative route will help maintain traffic flow during pillar erection and road excavation works,” said Sandeep Patil, Executive Engineer at PMC.
However, the decision could impact approximately 278 street vendors operating along the stretch, many of whom fear displacement. Earlier this week, PMC’s project and anti-encroachment teams, along with local representatives, conducted a site inspection to assess the situation.
Regional Encroachment Inspector Subhash Talekar assured that efforts would be made to minimise vendor relocation while ensuring smooth traffic management.
The move aims to mitigate traffic disruptions during the critical construction phase of the Vishrantwadi flyover, offering commuters a viable detour.
