The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has proposed widening a parallel road along the right bank canal from Mahatma Nagar to Badan Phata to alleviate mounting traffic congestion on Gangapur Road, one of the busiest arterial stretches in Nashik city. The civic body has requested Rs66 crore from the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) for the project as part of preparations for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela.
Project Details
The existing 4.5-km-long stretch, currently 9 metres wide, is proposed to be expanded to 15 metres, along with strengthening of road infrastructure. A civic official stated that the project aims to divert a portion of traffic from Gangapur Road, thereby reducing congestion, particularly during peak hours.
Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri confirmed that the proposal has been submitted to the NTKMA for funding. “We are planning to widen the existing road from Mahatma Nagar to Badan Phata. This stretch runs parallel to Gangapur Road and will help ease vehicular traffic. The proposal has been submitted in view of the upcoming Kumbh Mela,” she said.
Traffic Challenges on Gangapur Road
The move is part of broader efforts by the civic body to address traffic bottlenecks on Gangapur Road, which has witnessed a sharp rise in traffic volume over the past few years. The corridor serves as a crucial link between the city centre and emerging residential and recreational zones, handling a mix of local, intercity, and tourist traffic.
Rapid urbanisation and the growth of high-density residential pockets along the stretch have significantly contributed to the traffic load. The presence of educational institutions, hospitals, commercial establishments, banks, and eateries results in frequent halts and slow-moving traffic. Additionally, the road leads to popular destinations attracting heavy tourist inflow, especially over weekends and holidays. The absence of dedicated service roads, limited parking facilities, and roadside encroachments further aggravate congestion. As a result, Gangapur Road consistently witnesses traffic jams, making it the second most congested corridor in the city after the Dwarka Circle–Datta Mandir stretch on NH-60.
Expected Benefits
Officials believe that developing the parallel canal road will provide an alternative route for commuters and help distribute traffic more evenly. The project is also expected to improve connectivity and enhance mobility for residents in the rapidly growing western parts of the city. If approved, the proposed widening is likely to play a crucial role in reducing pressure on Gangapur Road and strengthening the city’s transport infrastructure ahead of the mega event.
