While the short-term solution may offer some relief, officials acknowledged that implementing the broader traffic restructuring plan at Ajni Bridge Square is far more complex. PWD engineer Prashant Shankarpure said the temporary road will be completed soon, but noted that the larger traffic management plan requires detailed deliberation. He added that the department would require substantial cooperation from the traffic police for effective implementation.“We have prepared a traffic plan, which will soon be discussed with the traffic police. Given the heavy traffic flow in the area, the project is highly complicated. Several precautionary measures are necessary to prevent mishaps. Therefore, we are reviewing all aspects thoroughly before taking a final decision,” Shankarpure said. The proposed underpass at Ajni Bridge Square is part of a ₹35 crore project that also includes widening the stretch from Ajni Bridge to TB Ward Square into a six-lane road. The expanded corridor will integrate with the Ajni twin cable-stayed bridges being constructed by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MRIDC).According to the proposed traffic plan accessed by TOI, the PWD has suggested a complete closure of the road from Chuna Bhatti towards Kriplani Square and Congress Nagar during construction. Motorists travelling from TB Ward via Ajni Bridge towards Kriplani Square would be required to proceed to Ajni Square and take Wardha Road to reach their destination.Sources said the PWD is considering closing the entire stretch in the busy area to facilitate construction of the approximately 62-metre underpass, along with a 100-metre approach road that will slope into it.Officials clarified that the final traffic plan will be implemented only after consultations with the traffic department, emphasising that while the temporary road may provide interim relief, resolving the area’s larger traffic challenges remains a complex task.
