Published: October 15, 2026 | Travel and traffic update
Commuters travelling between Pune and Mumbai should plan for possible delays through October 20, as increased Navratri pilgrim traffic and the extended festive travel period are expected to put pressure on both the Mumbai–Pune Expressway and the old Mumbai–Pune highway. Reports say authorities have introduced restrictions for heavy and large vehicles on key stretches near Karla and Lonavala to reduce congestion around Shri Ekvira Devi Temple.
Why Is Traffic Expected to Increase?
The Shri Ekvira Devi Temple near Karla attracts large numbers of devotees during Navratri. The festive period, combined with Dasara holiday travel, is expected to increase vehicle movement on the expressway and the old highway. Traffic police have urged commuters to consider public transport, including trains, where practical, and to allow extra time for their journey.
Key Vehicle Restrictions Reported for October 15–20
1. Karla Phata to Shri Ekvira Devi Temple approach
According to published reports, heavy and large vehicles are prohibited from entering the stretch between Karla Phata and the foothill temple of Shri Ekvira Devi until October 20. The restriction is intended to reduce congestion around the temple approach during the festival.
2. Old Mumbai–Pune highway: Kusgaon Budruk to Vadgaon Phata
Reports state that heavy and large vehicles will not be allowed on the old highway between Kusgaon Budruk toll plaza in Lonavala and Vadgaon Phata in Vadgaon Maval from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily from October 15 through October 19.
These are reported heavy-vehicle restrictions; they should not be interpreted as a blanket ban on all cars or private vehicles. Drivers should check current police instructions and on-road signage for the latest conditions.
What Should Pune–Mumbai Commuters Do?
- Allow extra travel time: Expect slower movement near Karla, Lonavala and adjoining highway stretches, particularly during busy pilgrimage and holiday periods.
- Consider trains or public transport: If your schedule permits, rail travel may help you avoid road congestion.
- Check traffic updates before departure: Review the latest advisories from highway traffic police and local authorities before starting your journey.
- Follow official diversions and signs: Use only the routes directed by traffic personnel. Do not rely on unverified social media route maps.
- Heavy-vehicle operators should plan ahead: Confirm applicable restriction windows and authorised alternatives with the relevant traffic police before entering the corridor.
- Keep safety in mind: Maintain a safe distance, avoid sudden lane changes and never stop on the expressway except in designated safe areas or an emergency.
Are Private Cars Banned on the Pune–Mumbai Route?
The published reports reviewed for this update describe restrictions focused on heavy and large vehicles on specified stretches. They do not establish a general ban on all private cars. However, congestion, local traffic controls or further instructions may change conditions, so private motorists should verify the latest official advisory before travelling.
Will the Restrictions Continue Until October 20?
The reported restriction on the Karla Phata–temple approach remains in place until October 20. The specified 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. restriction on the old highway between Kusgaon Budruk toll plaza and Vadgaon Phata is reported for October 15–19. Check for any subsequent official announcement before travelling, as traffic arrangements can change with crowd conditions.
Plan Your Journey Before You Leave
The safest approach is to check a fresh traffic update shortly before departure, allow additional time, and follow police instructions throughout the journey. Pilgrims visiting Shri Ekvira Devi Temple and motorists travelling between Pune and Mumbai should be prepared for delays during the festive rush.
News sources: This report is based on published coverage by The Times of India (October 14, 2026) and The Economic Times (October 15, 2026). For real-time decisions, follow the latest official police and district administration announcements.
Note: Traffic conditions and restrictions can change. This article is an informational summary of reported advisories, not a substitute for official directions from traffic authorities.
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