Pune: PMRDA has issued a directive that heavy vehicles transporting construction materials will now only be permitted to enter Hinjewadi, Mhalunge, and adjacent areas during specific time slots designated by the police. The decision is aimed at mitigating traffic chaos and prevent accidents in these rapidly developing zones.This decisive action follows a tragic incident last Friday in Hinjewadi, where a woman on a two-wheeler was fatally crushed by a concrete mixer truck. A case has been registered against the driver, and in response to this incident, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has temporarily withheld the construction permit for the project associated with the vehicle involved. Officials believe this firm action will serve as a stern warning to all developers to strictly enforce safety protocols.The directive regarding banning entry of heavy vehicles emerged from a high-level meeting held on Monday at PMRDA’s Akurdi office, chaired by Yogesh Mhase, metropolitan commissioner, PMRDA. The meeting saw the participation of Avinash Patil, director of development permission and planning department, police inspector Mahesh Kumar Sartape, and key representatives from construction companies and contractors operating in Hinjewadi, Maan, and Mahalunge areas.PMRDA will now coordinate closely with the traffic police to finalise the precise vehicle entry timings and establish robust enforcement mechanisms. “Safety and accountability will be our top priority,” an official said. “Developers must ensure their vehicles and drivers comply with all safety and legal requirements.”Officials highlighted that numerous large housing projects are currently underway in these fast-growing outskirts of Pune. The daily transportation of construction materials like cement, steel, and concrete by heavy vehicles has been a major contributor to frequent accidents and severe traffic congestion. “These vehicles pose a significant threat to commuters, especially during peak hours. Henceforth, they will only be allowed to ply at times approved by the police,” a senior official stated.Developers have been explicitly instructed to adhere to all traffic regulations and implement stringent safety precautions at their project sites. This includes ensuring that drivers of heavy vehicles are not intoxicated, possess valid driving licenses, and that all such details are meticulously collected and updated at each project site. PMRDA officials emphasised that the onus of ensuring compliance rests entirely with the developers and contractors, with strict action promised for any violations.“There is a heavy rush of two- and four-wheelers in the Hinjewadi-Maan area during morning and evening peak hours. Construction vehicles operating at these times create serious problems for other road users. The time restrictions will help streamline traffic and significantly reduce accident risks,” an official added.
