Ajni Underpass Set to Open by November Amid Ongoing Road Works
The PWD aims to complete the Ajni underpass by November, while additional road enhancements will proceed in phases.
Ajni underpass expected to open by November.
Project costs Rs35 crore and includes road widening.
Traffic congestion to ease with new underpass connectivity.
The Public Works Department (PWD) of Maharashtra has announced plans to open the underpass near the historic Ajni Bridge by November. This development is part of a larger project that includes road widening and the construction of permanent approaches, which will be executed in phases following the underpass completion.
The ongoing project, valued at Rs35 crore, aims to enhance the road between Ajni Bridge and TB Ward Square. This initiative is closely linked to the Rs332-crore Laxman Jhula project, currently being developed by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MRIDC). The construction activities have led to a reduction in available road space, causing frequent traffic jams in the vicinity.
PWD engineer Anand Rode emphasized that the opening of the underpass will significantly alleviate traffic issues. However, he noted that the approach road from the TB Ward side for the Laxman Jhula may face delays due to the need to plant 13,500 new trees, while only 400 will be removed. The team is currently assessing suitable locations for these plantations, which may result in ongoing restrictions on smaller road sections.
The first phase of the twin-cable-stayed bridge lacks a dedicated permanent approach and relies on the existing road network. Once MRIDC completes one side of the bridge, the existing structure will be demolished to facilitate the construction of the other side. Officials have assured that the delay in the approach road will not hinder the opening of the new bridge, as temporary approaches and diversions will be implemented to facilitate traffic flow onto the completed side of the Laxman Jhula.
Ultimately, the widened road will serve as the permanent access route to the new bridge. However, some sections of the proposed widening fall within railway limits, necessitating the acquisition of land on lease. The underpass will enhance connectivity between Congress Nagar and Chuna Bhati, allowing motorists to bypass the congested Ajni Bridge Square junction, thereby reducing traffic conflicts and easing congestion in the area.
