Pune: Iconic Butterfly Bridge Over Pavana River Inaugurated – A Marvel of Engineering & Connectivity Boost
Pic Courtesy: MLA Mahesh Landge
Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra – In a significant development for Pune’s infrastructure, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently inaugurated the state’s first-of-its-kind Butterfly Bridge over the Pavana River, connecting Thergaon to Chinchwad via the 18-meter Development Plan (DP) Road near Prasundham.
Engineering Marvel Without Pillar Support
The 107-meter-long and 18-meter-wide bridge is a unique feat in Maharashtra, constructed without conventional pillar support in the river, ensuring smoother water flow and reduced environmental impact.
Project Delays & Cost Escalation
Originally slated for completion in September 2024, the project, which began in 2016, faced delays due to contractor inefficiencies. The cost surged from an initial tender of ₹25 crore to ₹39.75 crore, a 14% increase.
BJP MLA Shankar Jagtap raised concerns in the Assembly regarding the cost hike and alleged irregularities. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde clarified that the height of the bridge was increased as per the Irrigation Department’s recommendations, contributing to both the delay and additional expenses.
Key Benefits & Improved Connectivity
BJP MLA Mahesh Landge highlighted the bridge’s advantages on X (formerly Twitter):
✔ Direct link between Thergaon, Birla Hospital Link Road, Chinchwad, and Kalewadi – eliminating long detours via Moraya Gosavi Mandir or Chapekar Chowk, both notorious for congestion.
✔ Eases traffic bottlenecks, especially for heavy vehicles struggling on older routes.
✔ Approach roads developed: 275 meters (Thergaon side) & 480 meters (Chinchwad side) for seamless access.
A Game-Changer for Commuters
The Butterfly Bridge promises faster, smoother travel, reducing commute time and fuel consumption. Its innovative design not only enhances aesthetics but also ensures durability and minimal river disruption.
