Chaos on Mumbai-Nagpur Highway: Over 50 Vehicles Punctured, Commuters Stranded Overnight

A fallen iron board causes disruption and panic on the high-speed Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Highway, raising safety concerns yet again.

December 31, 2024: In a chaotic turn of events on the Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Highway, over 50 vehicles were punctured after passing over an iron board that had fallen onto the roadway. The incident occurred around 10 PM on December 29 between the Malegaon and Vanoja toll plaza in Washim district, impacting both four-wheelers and cargo trucks.

The obstruction caused a significant traffic jam, leaving commuters stranded overnight without immediate assistance. Authorities are currently investigating whether the board fell accidentally or was deliberately placed on the road.

Safety Concerns Resurface

This incident comes at a time when safety on the high-speed corridor has been under intense scrutiny. Earlier in June, six people tragically lost their lives, and four others were injured in a collision near Kadwanchi village on the same expressway in Jalna district.

A Critical Infrastructure Project

The Samruddhi Mahamarg is one of India’s longest greenfield expressways, spanning 701 kilometers and connecting Mumbai with Nagpur. Built at an estimated cost of ₹55,000 crore, the six-lane access-controlled expressway aims to reduce travel time significantly between the two cities.

However, recurring safety incidents and lapses in highway management have raised questions about the operational readiness and risk mitigation measures implemented on this vital corridor.

Authorities Respond

Authorities have assured commuters that measures are being taken to avoid such incidents in the future. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the obstruction and to hold responsible parties accountable.

Commuters are advised to stay updated via official channels while traveling on the expressway to avoid unexpected delays or hazards.

Tags: Mumbai-Nagpur Highway, Samruddhi Mahamarg, Highway Safety, Vehicle Punctures, Traffic Jam, Road Safety, Maharashtra