Operational Context
Pune regularly experiences planned traffic diversions linked to cultural events, civic programming and commemorations, particularly in December when multiple festivals and public gatherings coincide. Historical diversion patterns during events such as Shivaji Jayanti, Palkhi processions and Koregaon Bhima anniversaries show that centrally located closures often persist for their full notified duration and generate predictable congestion spikes during daytime and event start–end windows. The city’s radial road network, combined with limited alternate corridors in the core areas, increases the likelihood of cascading delays across feeder routes. Businesses operating in or transiting through central Pune typically face short-to-medium duration operational impacts rather than systemic shutdowns, provided mitigation measures are implemented early.
Executive Summary
- Event Date: 13-21 December
- Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Risk Category: Travel Risks
- Severity Level: 3/ 5
- Confidence Score: 85 %
Localised, planned traffic diversions across Pune from 13–21 December are expected to cause moderate disruption concentrated in central corridors such as FC Road, University Road and Camp areas. Impacts will be most pronounced during peak hours and weekends, affecting commuter movement, last-mile logistics and retail access.
Known Hotspots & Sensitive Zones
- High Impact Zones: Fergusson College Road, Pune University main gate approaches, Camp and Civil Lines commercial precincts, Koregaon Park–Jaistambh Chowk approaches and Pune Station access roads.
- Medium Impact Zones: Shivajinagar and adjoining arterial connectors.
- Low Impact Zones: Outer residential zones.
These locations are recurrently affected during festivals, processions and civic events, with diversions often lasting the full advertised period of seven to nine days.
Impact on Transportation & Services
Road traffic is the primary concern, with closures and police-managed diversions causing delays for private vehicles, taxis, PMPML buses and two-wheelers. Ride-hailing pick-up restrictions are likely within closed zones. Rail and air services are not directly impacted, but cascading delays may affect intercity freight passing through Pune. Businesses in affected areas may experience reduced footfall, delayed deliveries and challenges in staff punctuality. Mobile networks may see brief congestion during peak crowd periods.
Recommended Action
Immediate Measures:
- Issue a travel advisory to employees working in or commuting through central Pune, highlighting alternate routes and flexible reporting times.
- Reroute last-mile logistics and confirm revised delivery windows with suppliers and couriers.
- Enable remote or hybrid work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Strategic Measures:
- Stagger shift timings and designate parking or meeting points outside diversion zones with shuttle arrangements.
- Maintain real-time monitoring through Pune City Traffic Police updates and internal live-route maps.
- Coordinate with local police and municipal authorities for permits or access approvals if time-sensitive operations are required.
Multi-Dimensional Impact
Colder-than-usual December temperatures may compound commuter discomfort and outdoor staffing challenges. Concurrent, unrelated infrastructure constraints or regional freight incidents could amplify congestion and extend delays beyond planned diversion hours.
Emergency Contacts
- Emergency Services: 112
- Pune City Traffic Police: @PuneCityTraffic (X)
- Pune Municipal Corporation: pmc.gov.in/
Situational Outlook
The most likely scenario is that diversions remain in effect for the advertised period, producing predictable congestion and manageable delays, particularly during peak hours and event timings. A moderate escalation could arise from higher attendance or unrelated road incidents, extending congestion and increasing delivery delays. A severe escalation, though unlikely, would involve overlapping infrastructure failures or emergency incidents leading to prolonged closures and wider operational disruption.
Strategic Takeaway
The traffic diversions in Pune represent a moderate, time-bound mobility risk with clear historical precedent. Proactive communication, route planning and workforce flexibility will significantly reduce operational impact. Continued monitoring through early-warning and situational-awareness platforms such as MitKat’s Datasurfr can enhance preparedness and support timely decision-making for businesses and city stakeholders. Stay ahead of operational risks with real-time alerts, scenario modeling, and expert advisories with datasurfr’s Predict. Start your 14-day free trial of Datasurfr’s Risk Intelligence Platform today.
