Rs 1,400-crore plan for Chakan roads, drainage; Rs 426 crore for Hinjewadi traffic

The Maharashtra government has approved a Rs 1,400-crore plan to enhance roads and infrastructure in the industrial region of Chakan, aiming to resolve issues of poor road conditions and waterlogging during the monsoon. This plan, discussed at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, will commence in December with the objective of significantly improving traffic and drainage before the next monsoon. In parallel, a Rs 426-crore scheme is in place to tackle traffic congestion in Hinjewadi.

Pune Collector Jitendra Dudi directed various departments to align their resources and agencies for projects encompassing road and drainage improvements, traffic management, and public facilities. Six acres of land in Hinjewadi have been allocated to address power supply-related concerns, and the deployment of 100 Maharashtra Security Force personnel for traffic management is under way. The administration is also contemplating the use of an AI-based enforcement system for traffic control in Chakan, Talegaon, and Hinjewadi.

To address waterlogging, natural drains in Chakan will be cleared, rainwater drainage systems installed, and the capacity of culverts and bridges increased. Drainage works, based on a survey by the Irrigation Department, are scheduled for completion by June 2027. Additionally, a 38 km stretch of roads will feature a monsoon drainage system.

Approximately 75 km of roads in Chakan will undergo upgrades in the initial phase, focusing on pedestrian paths, rainwater drainage, traffic facilities, and road safety. Private vehicle usage and consequent traffic congestion are alleviated through plans for enhanced public transport, with the need for around 500 additional buses identified.

The water supply scheme for Chakan's industrial area is projected to be finalized in 2027, potentially transitioning to management by Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran. A 100 MVA power substation is slated to start construction in December.