The Katraj-Mantarwadi Road has gained notoriety as a deadly stretch, claiming 21 lives since 2024, including that of dentist Pranali Date, who was struck by a speeding truck on Wednesday. Similar accidents, such as the tragic death of an eight-year-old boy in December 2023, highlight the dangers posed by heavy trucks and dumpers on this road. Overloaded vehicles spilling construction debris, coupled with issues like illegal parking, encroachments, and two-wheelers riding on the wrong side, contribute significantly to the accidents, as noted by civil society groups and local residents.
While authorities have deployed traffic personnel, imposed fines, and taken steps to manage congestion, residents insist that these efforts are insufficient. They call for urgent, holistic solutions, including road redesign, stricter enforcement of traffic rules, and a ban on heavy vehicles during peak hours. Community leaders emphasize the need for immediate action, urging all stakeholders to prioritize safety on this perilous road.