After a tragic accident on November 13 that resulted in the loss of eight lives, the Navale bridge stretch in Pune has once again drawn national attention. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take immediate and high-priority action to curb repeated accidents at this dangerous spot.
The directive follows a meeting between Gadkari and Pune’s Member of Parliament, Murlidhar Mohol, who also serves as Union Minister of State. During the meeting, Mohol submitted a comprehensive report prepared by multiple authorities, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), PMRDA, district administration, police officials and NHAI. The report highlighted the persistent safety risks around the Navale bridge and the urgent need to redesign and enforce new safety systems.
Mohol stressed that despite several discussions in the past, the issue has remained unresolved and the series of accidents has turned the area into a well-known accident-prone “black spot.” He appealed for strict and immediate intervention.
The proposed measures under review include redesigning key road sections, installing additional rumble strips, strengthening roadside barricades, improving signages and enforcing stricter speed control. Authorities are also planning mechanical checks for heavy vehicles, especially at the Khed-Shivapur toll booth, to prevent overloaded trucks from descending the steep slope near the bridge.
Gadkari’s latest directive marks a strong move toward coordinated action from all agencies. For thousands of daily commuters, it raises hope that long-pending safety upgrades may finally be implemented to prevent further tragedies.
