Traffic movement at the busy RTO Chowk in Pune has shown some improvement following the introduction of diversions and a ban on right turns at the junction. However, daily commuters in the area report that they are still seeking further relief, particularly for vehicles traveling from Juna Bazaar Chowk and Pune railway station toward RTO Chowk, which continue to face significant challenges.
Changes Implemented on Trial Basis
The alterations at the junction came into effect last week. Under the new rules, vehicles coming from Juna Bazaar Chowk are prohibited from taking a right turn toward Pune railway station on Raja Bahadur Mill Road. Similarly, vehicles approaching from Sangam Bridge are banned from turning right at RTO Chowk toward Juna Bazaar Chowk. The traffic police department has stated that these changes are being implemented on a trial basis and will remain in place for several more days to assess their effectiveness.
Purpose of the Ban
The primary objective behind banning right turns is to prevent vehicle bunching at the chowk and reduce waiting times for crossing the intersection. According to regular travelers, RTO Chowk has long been a major bottleneck, with waiting times to cross the junction increasing substantially over time. There has been persistent demand from vehicle users for measures to alleviate the habitual congestion in the area.
Police Observations
A traffic police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told TOI, "Major bottlenecks and long queues were being observed on the stretch from Pune railway station toward RTO Chowk, and also from Sangam Bridge. A decision was taken to ban right turns here, which has reduced waiting time. Vehicles have instead been given the option of taking U-turns a few meters ahead of the chowk. Queues have diminished. We are monitoring traffic flow from all directions. Further improvements will be introduced in stages over the next few days."
Commuters' Perspectives
Gopal Rathod, who frequently travels to Pune railway station, commented, "Traffic movement has improved at RTO Chowk, but rush hour chaos continues." Vishal Jagtap, another regular commuter passing through the area, added, "The changes introduced are good, but the authorities should work out long-term measures. The rail underpass connecting RTO Chowk to Juna Bazaar Chowk is too narrow to handle the increased traffic load and has become a major bottleneck. Widening this underpass should begin as soon as possible. The authorities should also develop an alternate road parallel to Raja Bahadur Mill Road to reduce long queues of vehicles on the stretch leading to Pune Junction."
Additional Measures
As part of ongoing efforts, one wing of Sangam Bridge has also been closed to vehicles. Additionally, a puncture in the road divider near Pune railway station on Raja Bahadur Mill Road has been sealed to restrict vehicle bunching and improve traffic flow.
