Pune, known for its growing IT and educational sectors, is struggling with severe traffic congestion, particularly around the rapidly expanding Hinjawadi IT Park. The long-awaited solution to this issue, the ?2,600 crore Ravet-Narhe elevated road project, has encountered an unexpected roadblock. Despite the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) submitting the detailed project report (DPR), the central government has yet to approve the plan, pushing the project’s timeline back by at least another year.

The 24-kilometre elevated road, featuring six lanes, will span key areas such as Wakad, Tathawade, Punawale, Ravet, Balewadi, Baner, Sus, and Bavdhan, helping alleviate congestion on the heavily trafficked Mumbai-Bengaluru Highway. The total project cost, estimated at Rs 26 billion, includes Rs 6 billion earmarked for service roads. However, the delay in securing clearance from the Finance Ministry committee has stalled its progress.

The delay has raised concerns among residents and IT professionals working in Hinjawadi, where daily traffic bottlenecks make commuting a challenge during peak hours. Once approved, the project will be executed in three phases: Ravet to Balewadi, Balewadi to Warje, and Warje to Narhe. NHAI officials are hopeful that with central clearance, the project will proceed swiftly to the tendering phase and construction.

While the elevated road promises to improve traffic flow and reduce travel times, the delay highlights a larger issue—Pune’s strained infrastructure. Rapid urbanization has outpaced the growth of the city’s transportation network, leading to severe congestion. As infrastructure projects like this elevated road advance, it is vital to prioritize sustainable development practices. Addressing rising pollution and unsustainable commuting patterns should be integral to urban planning, with a focus on eco-friendly transportation options like electric vehicles (EVs) and expanding green spaces along major roads to reduce the carbon footprint.

The delays in this project underscore the need for a more comprehensive approach to urban planning. Alongside road infrastructure improvements, greater emphasis should be placed on enhancing public transportation systems and promoting multi-modal travel. A sustainable urban development strategy is essential to mitigating not only traffic issues but also the environmental impacts of rapid urbanization.

Pune’s struggle is a reflection of the broader challenges faced by rapidly expanding cities across India. Moving forward, it will be crucial for planners and policymakers to balance infrastructure growth with long-term sustainability to ensure a healthier, more efficient urban environment.