Navi Mumbai: To ensure a smooth and safe journey for Ganesha devotees traveling from Mumbai to Konkan during Ganeshotsav, a traffic ban on heavy vehicles will be in effect on the Mumbai-Goa highway from September 5 to 18. The Home Department has issued orders to this effect, aiming to prevent traffic congestion and ensure uninterrupted travel for devotees.

Tirupati Kakade, Deputy Commissioner of Police for Navi Mumbai Traffic Department, announced that heavy vehicles, specifically those weighing 16 tonnes or more, will be prohibited from travelling on National Highway No. 66 during this period. The restriction will be enforced from 12 PM on September 5 to 8 PM on September 18 to accommodate the large influx of Ganesha devotees heading to Konkan.

In addition to the traffic ban, the Navi Mumbai Transport Department has established facility centres at six key locations Vashi Toll Gate, Airoli Toll Gate, Dhansar Toll Gate, Kalamboli Circle, Palaspe Circle, and Karnala Pass. These centres will provide essential services such as medical aid, fire brigade assistance, mechanical support for vehicle breakdowns, emergency communication via wireless systems, and crane facilities.

To manage traffic effectively during Ganeshotsav, the Navi Mumbai Transport Department has deployed a comprehensive police force including 1 Deputy Commissioner of Police, 1 Assistant Commissioner of Police, 15 Police Inspectors, 31 Assistant Police Inspectors/Police Sub-Inspectors, 610 Police Enforcers, and 91 Wardens.

“These measures are designed to facilitate a safe and efficient journey for Ganesha devotees and to minimise disruptions on the Mumbai-Goa highway during the festive period”, the official informed.