The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is embarking on an ambitious project to widen the service roads along the NH-48 highway within the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) jurisdiction. This initiative aims to alleviate rising traffic issues, enhance connectivity, ease congestion, and establish long-lasting infrastructure along this crucial route.

Currently, the service road in this area is 12 metres wide. Under the new plan, it will be expanded by 12 metres, bringing the total width to 24 metres. NH-48 is a key national highway, and the road widening is vital to manage the rapidly growing traffic around areas such as Punawale, Bhumkar Chowk, Hinjawadi, and Balewadi.

The total length of the NH-48 highway, including the service roads, stretches to 60 metres within the PCMC limits. Alongside this, 12-metre-wide Development Plan (DP) roads are being developed by the PCMC. As a result, the total width of the road network will reach 84 metres, improving overall connectivity in the area.

Citizens have long advocated for the enhancement of service roads to boost accessibility. Local commuters and businesses have raised concerns regarding the poor condition of the roads, which suffer from waterlogging during the monsoon season and other difficulties. The long-awaited project is now set to begin.

The estimated cost for this project is Rs 604.59 crore. By widening and upgrading the service roads, traffic congestion will be reduced, leading to smoother and safer travel. The project will also feature concrete footpaths for improved durability and advanced drainage systems to mitigate waterlogging, making it more convenient for commuters and businesses.

Shekhar Singh, Commissioner and Administrator of PCMC, stated, "NH-48 is a vital transport route within the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation. With rapid urbanisation, the city has become an industrial hub, and as a result, NH-48 is heavily congested. The expansion of service roads will reduce congestion on the main highway and improve traffic management, providing easier access for local commuters and businesses. This project is essential for the city's long-term infrastructure development."