Nashik's Dwarka Grade Separator Construction Triggers Total Road Closure, Traffic Diverted
The ongoing construction of the Dwarka grade separator in Nashik has resulted in a complete closure of the stretch between Dwarka and Kathe Galli, effective Tuesday. This significant infrastructure project, aimed at improving urban mobility, has necessitated immediate traffic management measures to minimize disruption for commuters.
Traffic Diversions and Alternative Routes Implemented
In response to the closure, heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses have been redirected to diversion routes that were established over a week ago. However, some motorcyclists and autorickshaws traveling from Nashik Road managed to navigate a narrow access path to reach the junction, showcasing local adaptability. Commuters approaching from the Shalimar area largely adapted by turning right at Sarda Circle, which routed traffic through Nagji Signal and Kathe Galli, allowing them to circumvent the closure and continue towards Nashik Road.
Police Insights on Traffic Flow and Future Closures
Inspector Riyaz Shaikh of the city traffic police provided detailed insights into the situation. He confirmed that heavy vehicles were already barred from using the Dwarka junction prior to the closure. "Light vehicles that used the junction from the Nashik Road side and Sarda Circle side started taking various alternative routes through Mumbai Naka, Nagji Signal, and other signals," he stated. Despite the near-complete closure, no major traffic congestion was observed in any part of the city, indicating effective planning and compliance from motorists.
The officer added, "Some vehicles are using the small road from Nashik Road to move towards the junction. However, that road too will be completely closed soon," highlighting that the traffic restrictions are being implemented in a phased manner to accommodate the construction timeline.
Project Timeline and Phased Road Restrictions
The work on the Dwarka grade separator, which commenced over the past two weeks, is expected to take approximately nine months to complete. To facilitate this, roads are being restricted for traffic in a phased approach, ensuring minimal disruption while allowing construction to proceed efficiently. This strategy aims to balance the needs of daily commuters with the long-term benefits of the infrastructure upgrade.
Key points to note include:
- Total closure of the Dwarka to Kathe Galli stretch due to construction.
- Heavy vehicles redirected via pre-established diversion routes.
- Light vehicles utilizing alternative paths such as Mumbai Naka and Nagji Signal.
- No significant traffic congestion reported, thanks to proactive measures.
- Phased road restrictions planned over the nine-month construction period.
This development underscores Nashik's efforts to enhance its transportation network, with authorities closely monitoring traffic patterns to ensure smooth operations during the construction phase.
