Daijiworld Media Network - Thane

Thane, Oct 12: The Ghodbunder Ghat stretch of the Mumbai–Ahmedabad highway was plunged into massive traffic chaos on Sunday after a truck carrying 17 tonnes of industrial parts overturned near Gaimukh Ghat. The incident exacerbated an already precarious situation caused by ongoing repair work by the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC).

The congestion created gridlock lasting over five hours, resulting in long snarls stretching from Sasunavghar to Kajupada.

Road Closures and Overturned Truck

The MBMC had recently resumed long-pending repairs between the Indian Oil petrol pump and Nira Centre, necessitating the full closure of one lane from October 11 midnight to October 14 midnight. This forced both-way traffic to share a single lane, which was being released in 20-minute intervals.

The situation became critical when the heavily loaded truck overturned near the Hanuman Temple at Gaimukh Ghat. Police attributed the accident to the narrow passage resulting from the repair-related lane closure. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

Commuter Frustration and Response

Commuters were left stranded for hours, leading to widespread frustration. Many questioned the decision to permit heavy vehicles on the already strained route during the repair work. In an unusual display of frustration and an attempt to beat the boredom, some stranded commuters were seen stepping out of their vehicles and even playing dandiya on the road.

Thane Police have deployed additional personnel to the area to manage the flow of vehicles and have urgently advised motorists to avoid the Ghodbunder Ghat stretch until the repairs are completed and the overturned truck is cleared.