Authorities in Pune have implemented comprehensive traffic restrictions on major highways and connecting roads to manage the large influx of visitors expected for the anniversary of the Battle of Koregaon Bhima. The traffic plan, active for a full 24 hours from December 31 into January 1, 2026, focuses on the area around the historic Jaystambh memorial in Perne village.
Key Traffic Restrictions and Road Closures
The Pune City Police have announced a major closure affecting the stretch from Nagar Road to the Bhima River bridge at Perne village, up to the Police Commissionerate limits. This closure applies to all general vehicles. Similar restrictions are in place on routes connecting Wagholi, Kesnand, and Lonikand. Notably, the Markal bridge over the Indrayani River is closed to all heavy vehicles, permitting only authorised light four-wheelers.
Heavy vehicles and buses have been advised to use alternative routes well in advance, such as the Wagholi–Shikrapur road. However, a crucial exemption exists for vehicles providing essential services. This includes fire brigades, police cars, ambulances, PMPML buses, and authorised vehicles transporting devotees to the event.
Diversion Plans for Regional and Heavy Traffic
Pune Rural Police have mandated a complete halt to all traffic between Chakan and Shikrapur in both directions. A detailed diversion plan is in effect for heavy commercial vehicles. Vehicles coming from Ahilyanagar (formerly Ahmednagar) towards Pune or Mumbai will be rerouted via Shirur, Nhavra, Chaufula, Yavat, and Hadapsar.
Conversely, heavy vehicles travelling from Pune towards Ahilyanagar will be diverted from the Kharadi Bypass towards Hadapsar, then onto the Pune-Solapur Highway through Chaufula and Kedgaon, before joining the Shirur–Ahilyanagar route. Light vehicles, like cars and jeeps, heading from Mumbai to Ahilyanagar are instructed to take the Vadgaon Maval–Chakan–Khed–Pabal–Shirur corridor.
Coordinated Efforts for a Major Public Gathering
The extensive traffic management plan is the result of coordinated efforts between the Pune City Police, Pimpri Chinchwad Police, and Pune Rural Police, along with other district agencies. Multiple coordination meetings were held in preparation for the event, which traditionally draws lakhs of visitors to the Jaystambh.
The memorial, constructed by the British in 1821, commemorates soldiers who fought in the Battle of Koregaon Bhima on January 1, 1818. The annual gathering on its anniversary involves various ceremonies and public gatherings at the site located on the Pune–Ahilyanagar highway. The police have clarified that the restrictions are solely for traffic management and will not apply to those attending the commemorative events at Perne village.
