Heatwave paralyses Mumbai-Pune expressway

A truck being towed after breaking down on the expressway

The intense heat sweeping across the state isn't just inconveniencing commuters on their way to work, but it's also disrupting the plans of families and friends heading for vacations to various destinations across Pune, Sangli, Satara, and the Konkan region.

According to reports from the highway police, breakdowns of both cars and heavy vehicles due to the heat are causing traffic jams on the Mumbai Pune Express Highway. The Maharashtra State Highway Police claim that in April alone, approximately 211 vehicles, predominantly cars during the day and heavy vehicles at night, experienced breakdowns on the ghat section.

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The excessive heat caused several breakdowns on the highway

"As per data, 211 vehicles broke down in April. Usually while travelling on the Bhor ghat or near the Lonavala side of the express highway. As vehicles ascend the ghat, their acceleration leads to overheating, eventually causing breakdowns. These breakdowns not only halt the traffic but also create daily congestion along the ghat section, as observed over the past few days," said a police officer.

"Two vehicles, a bus, and an Ertiga caught fire caused by short-circuiting, resulting in significant damage. The fire brigade, locals, traffic police, and highway police helped remove the vehicles without any reported injuries. However, the incident occurred on a busy road, triggering panic among commuters. Instead of immediately contacting the authorities, some individuals opted to capture videos and photos near the burning vehicles," said the police officer.

Pune, Sangli, Satara, and the Konkan region are mainly affected

According to data from the highway police, on weekdays, there are typically 35,000 to 40,000 cars and heavy vehicles moving along the highway. However, during weekends, this number spikes to 50,000 to 60,000 vehicles on both the ghat and express highway. This route isn't just used by vehicles heading towards Pune, Satara, Sangli, and Kolhapur. A significant portion of travellers bound for Konkan, including Ratnagiri and other regions, opt for this road. Being a state highway, it also serves as a route for vehicles heading towards Karnataka and other southern areas, contributing to the increased traffic flow.

The Maharashtra State Highway Police consistently raise awareness and issue alerts regarding vehicle overheating. "Our officers are stationed at the toll naka before the ascent, making continuous announcements advising drivers to turn off their air conditioning to prevent their vehicles from overheating. Likewise, we encourage both cars and heavy vehicles to pause before the ascent, allowing their vehicles to cool down," said Tanaji Chikhale, Superintendent of State Highway Police, Raigad.

"The Indian Reserve Batallion had provided them with a crane and towing van. "We have our team deployed at the spot and ghat section. As soon as there is a breakdown happens our team reaches the spot. But many times it does take time to reach the spot due to the traffic snarls. However, creating awareness and alertness among the travellers is also very important," added Chikhale.