Pune Faces Heavy Traffic Congestion Ahead of Diwali Festivities
Diwali Rush Brings Pune to a Standstill
As the festival of Diwali approaches, Pune’s bustling streets are witnessing unprecedented traffic congestion, with commuters struggling to navigate jam-packed markets and crowded roads. The last weekend before Diwali saw thousands of residents flocking to purchase sweets, clothes, electronics, and home décor, overwhelming the city’s transport infrastructure.
Major Areas Choked with Vehicles
Popular shopping hubs such as Laxmi Road, Fergusson College Road, J M Road, Aundh, Kothrud, and Hadapsar were gridlocked with long queues of vehicles on Saturday and Sunday. Streets, malls, and markets were packed, slowing movement to a crawl and leaving both motorists and pedestrians frustrated.
Citizens Voice Their Concerns
Many Punekars expressed irritation over poor traffic management and inadequate police presence. A resident of Kothrud, said her journey of 20 minutes took 1.5 hours due to unsynchronised signals and insufficient personnel at key junctions like Deccan and Nal Stop. Similarly, another daily commuter criticised the lack of planning, pointing out that haphazard roadside parking made matters worse, even obstructing emergency vehicles.
Traffic Police Respond with Measures
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Himmat Jadhav acknowledged the challenges but assured citizens that teams are working around-the-clock to ease festive traffic.
🪔 दिवाळी खरेदीसाठी बाहेर पडणाऱ्या नागरिकांनी खालील पुढील बाबी लक्षात घ्याव्या 🪔
— पुणे शहर वाहतूक पोलीस (@PuneCityTraffic) October 12, 2025
1️⃣ वाहतूक कोंडी टाळण्यासाठी सार्वजनिक वाहतुकीचा वापर करावा 🚌
2️⃣ गर्दी टाळण्यासाठी पिक अवर्समध्ये जाणे टाळावे 🕓
3️⃣ आपल्या इच्छित मार्गावरील वाहतूक कोंडी व वेळेचा अंदाज घेऊनच बाहेर पडावे 🗺️
4️⃣…
Measures include increased patrolling, deployment at major chowks, and issuing advisories recommending public transport use, early travel planning, and avoiding double parking. Authorities also urge citizens to take alternative routes wherever possible.
Balancing Festive Spirit with Road Safety
With Diwali just days away, Pune’s traffic chaos underscores the need for disciplined movement and better coordination between citizens and authorities. While the city’s enthusiasm remains high, finding ways to reduce heavy traffic congestion will be crucial for a safe and joyful celebration.
