Pune: Bhide Bridge Closure Extended Due to Metro Construction Delays

Pune, 7th June 2025: The Bhide Bridge, a critical traffic route in Pune, will remain closed for at least another month and a half due to ongoing Metro construction work. This closure extends the bridge's shutdown to nearly five months. Initially, the bridge was scheduled to reopen by 6th June, but progress has been significantly slower than anticipated.

The MahaMetro authority undertook the construction of a steel pedestrian bridge over Bhide Bridge in March. This structure is designed to connect Sadashiv Peth to the Deccan Metro Station, aiming to enhance commuter access. However, despite earlier assurances that the pedestrian overpass would be completed by early June, less than 20% of the work has been done as of now.

Due to the sluggish pace of construction, MahaMetro has requested the traffic police and Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to allow the bridge to remain closed until 15th August. This extension is expected to further inconvenience daily commuters, particularly two-wheeler riders.

Bhide Bridge plays a crucial role in the city’s traffic flow. It serves as a major artery for two-wheeler traffic between Pune’s western suburbs and its central Peth areas. On average, about 2.5 to 3 lakh two-wheelers cross the bridge daily. Traditionally, the bridge is only closed during the monsoon when the water level in the Mutha River rises or water is released from upstream dams.

The prolonged closure of Bhide Bridge has led to increased traffic congestion on alternative routes, causing significant delays and frustration among commuters. Local residents and business owners have expressed their concerns, highlighting the economic impact of the extended closure. The PMC and MahaMetro are working to minimize the disruption, but the situation remains challenging.

The construction of the pedestrian bridge is a part of a larger project to improve public transportation infrastructure in Pune. The Deccan Metro Station, once operational, is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a more efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport for residents. However, the delays in completing the Bhide Bridge pedestrian overpass have raised questions about the project's management and timelines.

In response to the delays, the PMC has increased the number of traffic diversion signs and is working on improving the flow of traffic on alternative routes. Additionally, local authorities are exploring the possibility of providing shuttle services to help commuters navigate the congested areas. Despite these efforts, the inconvenience to daily commuters is likely to persist until the project is completed.

The MahaMetro authority has assured the public that they are working diligently to expedite the construction work and minimize the impact on the community. They have also set up a helpline and a dedicated website to keep the public informed about the project's progress and any updates related to the bridge closure.

As the city awaits the completion of the Bhide Bridge pedestrian overpass, the focus remains on balancing the need for infrastructure development with the daily needs of Pune's residents. The extended closure serves as a reminder of the challenges involved in urban development and the importance of effective project management.