NMC seeks Rs66cr for widening parallel stretch to decongest Gangapur Road

Nashik: The civic body, in order to ease mounting traffic congestion on Gangapur Road which is one of the busiest arterial stretches in Nashik city, has proposed widening a parallel road along the right bank canal from Mahatma Nagar to Badan Phata.The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has sought Rs66 crore from the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA) for the project as part of preparations for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela.The existing 4.5-km-long stretch, which is currently 9 metres wide, is proposed to be expanded to 15 metres, along with strengthening of the road infrastructure. A civic official, while talking to TOI, said the project is aimed at diverting a portion of traffic from Gangapur Road, thereby reducing congestion, particularly during peak hours.Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri confirmed that the proposal has been submitted to the NTKMA for funding. “We are planning to widen the existing road from Mahatma Nagar to Badan Phata. This stretch runs parallel to Gangapur Road and will help ease vehicular traffic. The proposal has been submitted in view of the upcoming Kumbh Mela,” she said.The move comes as part of broader efforts by the civic body to address traffic bottlenecks on Gangapur Road, which has witnessed a sharp rise in traffic volume over the past few years. The corridor serves as a crucial link between the city centre and emerging residential and recreational zones, handling a mix of local, intercity and tourist traffic.Rapid urbanisation and the growth of high-density residential pockets along the stretch have significantly contributed to the traffic load. The presence of educational institutions, hospitals, commercial establishments, banks, and eateries results in frequent halts and slow-moving traffic.In addition, the road leads to popular destinations attracting heavy tourist inflow, especially over weekends and holidays. The absence of dedicated service roads, limited parking facilities, and roadside encroachments further aggravate congestion. As a result, Gangapur Road consistently witnesses traffic jams, making it the second most congested corridor in the city after the Dwarka Circle–Datta Mandir stretch on NH-60.Officials believe that developing the parallel canal road will provide an alternative route for commuters and help distribute traffic more evenly. The project is also expected to improve connectivity and enhance mobility for residents in the rapidly growing western parts of the city.If approved, the proposed widening is likely to play a crucial role in reducing pressure on Gangapur Road and strengthening the city’s transport infrastructure ahead of the mega event.