The Pune City Traffic Police have implemented a comprehensive traffic management plan for the bustling Camp area in anticipation of the large crowds expected for Christmas celebrations. Significant road closures and diversions will be active for two evenings to ensure smooth movement and safety.
Traffic Restrictions: Timing and Authority
The restrictions will be enforced on Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve) and Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day). According to the order issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Himmat Jadhav on Tuesday evening, the measures will commence at 7 PM on both days. The diversions will remain in effect until the festive crowds disperse.
This annual initiative addresses the influx of thousands of visitors from Pune and nearby regions who traditionally visit the Pune Camp area and its historic churches on these evenings. The core of the congestion is typically around Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road and its adjoining lanes, famous for their food joints and shops that attract heavy footfall for both celebrations and last-minute shopping.
Detailed Diversion Routes for Motorists
To manage the expected vehicular surge, the traffic police have outlined specific diversion routes. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid delays.
Key diversions include:
- Traffic moving from Y Junction towards MG Road will be halted at 15 August Chowk and redirected via Qureshi Masjid and Sujata Mastani Chowk.
- Vehicles coming from the Iskcon Temple side and heading towards Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Statue and Aurora Towers will be diverted via SBI House Chowk, Teen Tofa Chowk, and the Lashkar Police Station.
- The flow from Volga Chowk to Mohammed Rafi Chowk will be redirected via East Street and Indira Gandhi Chowk.
- Traffic from Indira Gandhi Chowk to Mahaveer Chowk will need to use the route past Lashkar Police Station Chowk.
- Movement from Sarbatwala Chowk to Mahaveer Chowk will be diverted via Taboot Street Chowk.
Police Deployment and Exemptions
The traffic police have assured that sufficient personnel will be on the ground for effective management. Teams from the local police station and the traffic control branch will be deployed across the Pune Camp and surrounding areas for crowd control and to guide vehicles.
It is important to note that the traffic restrictions will not apply to emergency service vehicles. This exemption covers fire tenders, ambulances, and police and military vehicles on active duty, ensuring that critical services remain unimpeded during the festivities.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to cooperate with the police, use alternative routes, and consider using public transportation to reach the celebration spots in the Camp area to enjoy a hassle-free Christmas.
