Pune Cycling Event Road Closures Trigger Widespread Commuter Disruption
Road closures and diversions implemented for Monday's cycling event in Pune created massive inconvenience for thousands of commuters relying on public transport. Both PMPML and MSRTC bus services experienced significant operational challenges throughout the day.
PMPML Services Severely Impacted
PMPML officials confirmed that while no services were officially canceled, approximately 1,800 trips operated by around 150 buses faced disruption. The Deccan bus station remained closed until evening hours, forcing all buses to follow alternative routes.
Commuters expressed deep frustration over the lack of communication and extended travel times. Sunil Bijale, a technician-cum-sales representative, shared his experience. "It took me over two-and-a-half hours to reach Deccan Corner from Swargate, a journey that normally takes no more than an hour. From there, I had to walk another 2.5 kilometers to reach my office on FC Road," he said.
Nitin Wable, another PMPML passenger heading to JM Road, echoed similar concerns. "With so many diversions, the bus eventually halted as it couldn't proceed further. We were forced to get down and walk. PMPML provided no updates about the situation," he explained.
A senior PMPML official acknowledged the problems. "All buses are running, but with diversions. Nearly 1,800 trips by about 150 buses were impacted. We are experiencing delays, but we are working to maintain punctuality. We expect normalcy to return by 6-7 pm," the official stated.
MSRTC Passengers Face Similar Challenges
MSRTC buses traveling to Mumbai also encountered substantial delays. Routes via Karve Road and Ganeshkhind Road were diverted after authorities closed both stretches for the cycling event.
Many passengers missed their buses as services were rerouted after 9 am. Business executive Gautam Sharma voiced his frustration. "MSRTC should have informed passengers in advance. I waited for nearly an hour on Karve Road and will now need to seek a refund for my ticket," he said.
MSRTC's divisional transport officer Sachin Shinde responded to the criticism. "We put up notices at our depots about the route changes. People, it seems, do not read them properly," he commented.
Alternative Transport Options Exploited Commuters
With public bus services disrupted, many commuters turned to Pune Metro as an alternative. However, this shift created additional problems as autorickshaw drivers reportedly overcharged passengers traveling to Metro stations.
Manish Wardhan, who was traveling to Deccan for work, described his experience. "The distance from Dhole Patil Road to the Metro station near Jehangir Hospital is barely 2 kilometers, yet the driver charged me Rs 150 and refused to go by the meter," he revealed.
The cycling event's road closures created a ripple effect across Pune's transportation network. Commuters faced extended travel times, unexpected walking distances, and financial losses due to the disruptions.
