Pune: Bopkhel Bridge Nears Completion, Set to Open for Traffic
The much-anticipated Bopkhel Bridge is nearing completion and is expected to be open for traffic by the end of August 2024. The project, which aims to ease the commute for citizens, workers, and students, is being coordinated with the Ministry of Defense and traffic police officers.
The road from Dapodi to Bopkhel village via the CME area was closed on May 13, 2015, following an order from Mumbai High Court. This closure increased the travel distance from Bopkhel to Dapodi from a mere 2 km to approximately 16 km, forcing residents to take a detour of around 15 to 16 km via Bhosari or Vishrantwadi, Khadki. The extended route caused significant inconvenience for the local population.
Currently, 98% of the bridge work is complete. The project faced delays primarily due to the need to relocate high-voltage power lines and towers of the Mahatransco Department, which was accomplished on May 18, 2024. The remaining civil works are now nearing completion.
Once opened, the new bridge will reduce the travel distance to 2.9 km through the Khadki Cantonment area to Pimpri-Chinchwad and Pune city, significantly saving time and fuel costs for the residents. The shorter route will also contribute to maintaining environmental balance.
“The bridge work is nearing completion and will soon be open for traffic. Coordination with the Defense Department and traffic police officials is underway. This will be convenient for Bopkhel residents and workers, and it will save time for students,” said a press release by PCMC.
