Pune-Mumbai Expressway Traffic Halted for Over 16 Hours After Gas Tanker Accident
The State Highway Police issued a critical advisory on Wednesday, urging all commuters to completely avoid the Pune–Mumbai Expressway. This comes as traffic movement remains suspended for more than 16 hours following a serious accident involving a Propylene gas tanker. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening near the Adoshi tunnel on the Mumbai-bound carriageway, causing significant disruption and safety concerns.
Alternate Routes and Extended Travel Times Recommended
In their official advisory, the Highway Police specifically warned against using the Lonavala–Khandala ghat section. Instead, they recommended that travelers opt for alternative routes to reach their destinations. These include:
- Via Tamhini Ghat
- Via Malshej Ghat
- Via the Bhimashankar or Manchar route
However, authorities cautioned that choosing these detours will likely increase travel time by approximately 3 to 5 hours. Heavy vehicles have been instructed to park at the nearest available lay-bys or food malls until the situation is fully resolved.
Rail Services Unaffected; Commuters Encouraged to Use Trains
For those not traveling in private vehicles, the advisory strongly suggested utilizing rail services, which remain operational and unaffected by the road closure. Recommended train options include:
- Intercity Express
- Deccan Queen
- Sinhagad Express
This provides a viable alternative for many stranded passengers seeking to continue their journeys without further delay.
Ongoing Rescue Operations and Traffic Management
The overturned Propylene gas tanker has led to a complex rescue operation. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) have been deployed to the site. Highway SP Tanaji Chikhale provided an update, stating, “Rescue teams are still working to stop the leakage from the overturned tanker using all available measures. I have been informed that it may take at least two more hours to fully control the leak.”
Once the gas leak is neutralized, the tanker will be removed, and the Mumbai-bound lane is expected to reopen. In the interim, one of the three lanes on the Pune-bound carriageway is being used to divert stranded vehicles heading towards Mumbai. This partial measure aims to alleviate some congestion but is not a full solution.
Widespread Impact and Commuter Stranding
The accident has caused extensive traffic backups, with vehicles queued for several kilometers towards Pune. Many commuters have been stranded for over 16 hours, highlighting the severe impact of the closure. Authorities continue to advise avoiding the stretch until traffic normalizes, emphasizing safety and patience during this ongoing incident.
