Maharashtra MIDC Unveils Major Infrastructure Overhaul for Chakan Industrial Zone
The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has announced a comprehensive series of infrastructure projects with a total investment of Rs 368 crore. This ambitious initiative spans all five phases of the Chakan industrial area, strategically designed to combat the persistent and severe traffic congestion that has long plagued this critical economic hub.
Key Road Construction Projects to Enhance Connectivity
A cornerstone of this development plan is the construction of two significant stretches of six-lane concrete roads. These roads will cover a distance of up to 3.5 kilometers on the crucial route connecting the Talegaon industrial area to Chakan. With a dedicated investment of Rs 64 crore, this project includes creating a bypass around Navlakh Umbre village near Talegaon and implementing substantial upgrades to sections adjacent to the Nashik highway. Officials anticipate that these improvements will dramatically streamline traffic flow between the old Mumbai-Pune and Nashik highways.
"Most of the work has already been completed, with the remaining portion scheduled for completion by March," a senior MIDC official confirmed, highlighting the project's advanced stage.
Additional Infrastructure Upgrades Across Multiple Phases
MIDC is also proceeding with concreting the four-lane road extending from the Volkswagen plant to Alandi Phata. This 5.7-kilometer stretch will be enhanced with asphalt shoulders on both sides for improved safety and durability. In the earlier phases 1 and 2 of the industrial area, the agency plans to concrete nearly 15 kilometers of existing roads. Furthermore, phase 5 will see the addition of a brand-new 4.5-kilometer, four-lane road section.
"Work orders for most of these projects have already been issued, and around 70% of the work is expected to be completed by June 2027," another official stated, outlining the project timeline.
Addressing a Long-Standing Commuter Crisis
Chakan, recognized as a major automobile manufacturing hub, has endured severe traffic congestion for years, adversely affecting the daily commute of its approximately 15 lakh workers. Industry representatives have consistently pointed out that the high volume of heavy vehicles from numerous manufacturing units has overwhelmed the existing road infrastructure, leading to gridlock.
"Travelling to and from Chakan is unpredictable. During peak hours, traffic jams can last over two hours. Even foreign delegates hesitate to visit plants because of the arduous commute," revealed a senior official from an aviation firm based in the area, underscoring the operational challenges.
Economic and Safety Impacts of Current Conditions
Dilip Batwal, General Secretary of the Federation of Chakan Industries, has been a vocal advocate for infrastructure improvements, having raised the issue with multiple governmental authorities. He emphasized the significant economic loss due to wasted man-hours caused by prolonged traffic delays. Batwal also highlighted critical safety concerns, noting that the narrow roads and dangerous mix of heavy commercial vehicles with regular cars and two-wheelers have led to frequent accidents, jeopardizing worker safety.
Nilesh Modhave, Superintendent Engineer at MIDC, provided an optimistic outlook: "Several road construction activities are in progress. Some will be completed before the monsoon season. These comprehensive upgrades will significantly improve connectivity for daily office commuters and substantially ease travel for those heading toward Nashik and other regions." This Rs 368 crore investment marks a decisive step toward resolving Chakan's chronic traffic woes and bolstering the region's industrial efficiency.
