Wadgaon Flyover accident scene illustrated to raise awareness about Pune’s road safety crisis – Read full story at PuneriPages.in
In a tragic and avoidable road accident, a young life was lost on the night of June 20, 2024, on Pune’s Wadgaon flyover when a speeding truck collided into a two-wheeler from behind. The horrifying crash claimed the life of 25-year-old Vishal Kale, who was riding pillion, and left his cousin, 28-year-old Aniket Kale, with multiple injuries. The two were reportedly heading home from work when their bike was struck at high speed, highlighting yet another alarming case of reckless driving on city flyovers.
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According to preliminary investigations, the accident took place around 10:30 PM on the Mumbai-Bengaluru highway stretch of the Wadgaon flyover. Eyewitnesses claim that the truck, which was moving at an excessive speed, failed to notice the bike ahead and rammed into it without attempting to brake in time. The impact of the collision was so powerful that both riders were thrown several feet off the vehicle. Emergency response teams arrived shortly thereafter, but Vishal was declared dead on the spot due to fatal head injuries, while Aniket was rushed to a private hospital and remains under medical supervision.
Victims Identified
The deceased victim has been identified as Vishal Kale, a resident of Pune working with a local IT firm. Vishal was known to be a responsible and soft-spoken individual with a promising future ahead. He was riding pillion while his cousin, Aniket Kale, was operating the two-wheeler. Aniket, who also works in the IT industry, was deeply shaken but survived with serious injuries.
Eyewitness Accounts
Several motorists and passersby who witnessed the accident narrated a chilling account. According to one of them, “The truck was moving too fast and seemed out of control. It didn’t slow down before hitting the bike. We heard a loud crash, and by the time we reached the scene, both men were lying on the road. One wasn’t moving.” Such eyewitness statements have been instrumental in aiding the police investigation.
Police Action
The Wakad Police acted promptly upon receiving the alert. Officers reached the scene within minutes and detained the truck driver, who is now facing legal proceedings. A case has been filed under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 304A (causing death by negligence) and 279 (rash driving). The truck has been seized and sent for technical and mechanical inspection to assess whether any vehicle malfunction contributed to the incident.
Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage from traffic cameras installed along the flyover to corroborate the accounts of witnesses and determine the exact sequence of events.
Road Safety Concerns on Flyovers
The incident has brought renewed attention to the long-standing issue of poor enforcement of traffic laws on city flyovers, especially during late-night hours. Wadgaon flyover, being a vital connector along the Mumbai-Bengaluru route, witnesses heavy vehicular movement at all hours. However, inadequate signage, poor lighting, and lack of routine speed checks make it especially dangerous for two-wheeler riders.
Citizens and road safety advocates are now demanding that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the city’s traffic police step up efforts to prevent such tragedies. Suggestions include installing additional speed-monitoring cameras, increasing police patrols during nighttime, and enforcing stricter penalties for rash driving and over-speeding.
Family in Mourning
The family of Vishal Kale is devastated by the sudden and tragic loss. Vishal’s parents, already dealing with financial constraints, are grappling with immense emotional trauma. Friends and neighbors describe Vishal as a hardworking individual who supported his family and was loved by everyone. His funeral was attended by dozens of relatives, coworkers, and well-wishers who expressed their grief and called for justice.
Aniket, who is still recovering in the hospital, was reportedly in shock and has not been informed of Vishal’s passing. Doctors have stated that while his physical injuries are treatable, the psychological impact of the trauma may take much longer to heal.
Public Outcry and Call for Reform
In the aftermath of this accident, multiple citizens’ groups and NGOs have taken to social media and local forums to raise awareness about road safety. Hashtags like #JusticeForVishal and #SafePuneRoads have been trending, with people sharing their own experiences of unsafe road conditions and negligent driving.
A candlelight vigil is being planned near the site of the accident to honor Vishal’s memory and to demand better safety infrastructure. Activists are urging PMC to conduct a comprehensive audit of all major flyovers and bridges in Pune and implement immediate safety upgrades.
Government Response
Responding to the public outrage, a spokesperson from the Pune Traffic Police acknowledged the need for better surveillance and control mechanisms. “We are reviewing the current setup on the Wadgaon flyover and other key corridors. Immediate steps are being taken to increase visibility through better lighting, and proposals have been sent for installing speed detection systems,” the official stated.
The administration has also promised stricter checks on heavy vehicles and a possible revision of nighttime transit rules for trucks within city limits.
FAQs
Q1: When did the Wadgaon flyover accident occur?
A1: The accident took place on June 20, 2024, around 10:30 PM.
Q2: Who were the victims of this accident?
A2: Vishal Kale, 25, was killed. His cousin Aniket Kale, 28, was injured but survived.
Q3: What is the current condition of the injured victim?
A3: Aniket Kale is recovering in a private hospital and remains under observation.
Q4: What action has the police taken?
A4: The truck driver has been detained, and legal proceedings are underway. The vehicle has been impounded.
Q5: Are there any updates from the government or traffic police?
A5: Yes, the Pune Traffic Police have promised increased surveillance, better lighting, and possibly new speed-control measures on city flyovers.
Q6: What are citizens demanding?
A6: Enhanced traffic monitoring, stricter enforcement of speed limits, improved road signage, and flyover audits.
Q7: Will there be any community action?
A7: A candlelight vigil is being organized to honor Vishal and advocate for safer roads.
Q8: What are the main causes of accidents on Wadgaon flyover?
A8: Speeding, inadequate lighting, poor enforcement, and lack of clear signage.
Q9: What IPC sections have been invoked?
A9: IPC 304A (death by negligence), IPC 279 (rash driving), and other relevant charges.
Q10: Where can I follow updates on this case?
A10: You can follow updates on PuneriPages.in and the official handles of Pune Traffic Police.
For real-time updates, road safety news, and more such stories, visit PuneriPages.in
Stay aware. Drive responsibly. Together, let’s build safer roads for Pune.
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