Nagpur PWD Initiates Temporary Road Construction to Alleviate Ajni Bridge Traffic Woes
In response to escalating traffic congestion caused by ongoing underpass construction, the Public Works Department (PWD) in Nagpur has commenced work on a temporary road near Ajni Bridge. This interim measure aims to provide much-needed relief to motorists navigating the heavily impacted area.
Addressing Immediate Traffic Challenges
The temporary roadway is being created by cutting through the central median, effectively linking the Kriplani Square–Ajni Bridge Square road with the newly constructed bypass leading towards Congress Nagar. This alternative route is specifically designed for vehicles traveling from Ajni Bridge or Chuna Bhatti Square towards Congress Nagar, offering a detour around the main road closure necessitated by the underpass project.
The initiative follows a proposal earlier this month by DCP (Traffic) Lohit Matani, who identified the urgent need to decongest the busy junction. PWD engineer Prashant Shankarpure confirmed that the temporary road construction is progressing rapidly and will be completed shortly.
Complexities of Broader Traffic Management
While the temporary solution offers immediate respite, officials emphasize that implementing a comprehensive traffic restructuring plan for Ajni Bridge Square presents significant challenges. Engineer Shankarpure acknowledged that the larger traffic management strategy requires meticulous planning and substantial cooperation from traffic police authorities.
"We have prepared a traffic plan that will soon be discussed with the traffic police," Shankarpure stated. "Given the heavy traffic flow in this area, the project is highly complicated. Several precautionary measures are necessary to prevent accidents, so we are thoroughly reviewing all aspects before making final decisions."
Underpass Project Details and Future Implications
The proposed underpass at Ajni Bridge Square forms part of a substantial ₹35 crore infrastructure project that includes:
- Widening the stretch from Ajni Bridge to TB Ward Square into a six-lane road
- Integration with the Ajni twin cable-stayed bridges being constructed by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MRIDC)
According to traffic plans accessed by local media, the PWD has proposed a complete closure of the road from Chuna Bhatti towards Kriplani Square and Congress Nagar during construction phases. This would require motorists traveling from TB Ward via Ajni Bridge towards Kriplani Square to proceed to Ajni Square and take Wardha Road to reach their destinations.
Construction Scope and Safety Considerations
Sources indicate the PWD is considering closing the entire busy stretch to facilitate construction of the approximately 62-meter underpass, along with a 100-meter approach road that will slope into the underpass structure. Officials have clarified that any final traffic plan will only be implemented after comprehensive consultations with the traffic department.
The temporary road serves as an interim solution, but resolving the area's persistent traffic challenges remains a complex undertaking requiring coordinated efforts between multiple government departments and careful consideration of public safety.
