Commuters in Thane can look forward to smoother travels as restrictions on heavy vehicles plying on Ghodbunder Road are now in effect until midnight. This decision, aimed at alleviating traffic congestion, comes as welcome news for those who regularly use this vital route.

The directive to restrict heavy vehicle movement was issued by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, following complaints about severe traffic jams. The restrictions are specifically intended to remain in place until the ongoing work of merging the Ghodbunder service road with the main carriageway is completed. This project is slated to be finished by December 31, 2025.

The Ghodbunder Road is a crucial artery connecting Thane, Mira-Bhayandar, and Palghar, also serving as a key route for vehicles heading outside the district. The high volume of traffic, including container trucks from JNPT, heavy vehicles, local passenger transport, taxis, and rickshaws, often leads to significant congestion. The ongoing road repairs have further narrowed the available space, exacerbating the problem.

Under the new regulations, heavy vehicles are only permitted on Ghodbunder Road between midnight and 6 am. This measure is expected to significantly reduce daytime congestion, providing relief to daily commuters. Authorities are also planning for diversions and alternate routes to manage the flow of heavy vehicles. For instance, vehicles from Palghar-Virar will be blocked at Shirsat Phata and diverted via Parol, Akoli, and Ambadi. Similarly, vehicles from Palghar-Vasai will be rerouted through Kaman, Kharbav, Anjurphata, and Bhiwandi. Ahmedabad-bound heavy vehicles will be diverted via Manor and Ambadi routes.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has instructed JNPT's Managing Director, Unmesh Wagh, to ensure that vehicles coming from JNPT are not allowed to enter Ghodbunder Road until after midnight. He also directed the Mira-Bhayandar and Palghar police, along with the district collector, to coordinate the planning for vehicles coming from Ahmedabad. Additionally, temporary parking facilities for heavy vehicles will be set up at Achhad and Chinchoti. Strict action will be taken against officials who violate these rules and release vehicles ahead of schedule.

While these restrictions are in place, certain vehicles are exempt. Police vehicles, fire brigade units, ambulances, green corridor vehicles, oxygen tankers, and other essential service vehicles will be allowed to use Ghodbunder Road without any hindrances. Light motor vehicles are also permitted throughout the day.

Commuters are advised to stay informed about traffic updates and plan their journeys accordingly. While the restrictions may cause some initial inconvenience for heavy vehicle operators, the long-term benefits of reduced congestion and smoother traffic flow are expected to outweigh the challenges.