With train and bus tickets from Pune and Mumbai to Nagpur nearly exhausted and airfares touching Rs 20,000, the Samruddhi Mahamarg is likely to witness a major rush this Diwali. After last year’s fuel shortage, food scarcity and long traffic jams left hundreds of commuters stranded, the expressway faces a crucial test of its preparedness. Last Diwali, what was expected to be a 10 to 12 hours journey from Pune to Nagpur stretched to 15 to 18 hours for many commuters. Several fuel stations ran dry as vehicles poured onto the expressway. A few pumps with available stock witnessed serpentine queues, some extending onto the carriageway.

 

Festive rush  

 

The resulting congestion and lane closures, turned the journey into an ordeal. Eateries along the route also struggled to cope with the surge in demand as food supplies ran short. This year, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) says it has coordinated with fuel companies and instructed them to maintain adequate stock at all fuel stations. Amenities have also been developed at intervals of around 100 kms to provide motorists basic facilities. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) working in coordination with the Highway Police, will be deployed to manage traffic and respond to emergencies.

 

The maintenance-related traffic blocks being implemented by MSRDC at various locations are expected to end by November 6. Remaining restrictions are expected to be minor, lasting only a few hours, with traffic to be resumed as soon as the repair work at each location is completed. However, effective coordination will remain crucial as the festive rush builds up. Even short disruptions can lead to congestion when traffic volumes are high, making timely completion of repairs and smooth traffic management essential. While availability of fuel stations and amenities has been improved, the real test lies in their ability to withstand the surge in demand.