With the India-New Zealand T20 International scheduled at Jamtha Stadium on January 21, concerns over traffic congestion on Wardha Road have resurfaced, as multiple infrastructure projects continue along the busy NH-44 corridor. The visiting teams are expected to arrive on January 19, while ticket sales begin on January 17, raising expectations of a large turnout for the high-profile match.
Traffic snarls have long plagued international fixtures in Nagpur, with thousands of spectators often spending hours stuck on roads after matches, despite extensive arrangements by traffic police and civic agencies. February last year was the lone exception when fans managed a relatively smooth exit. This time, officials admit the challenge could be greater due to simultaneous construction activities along Wardha Road.
A major bottleneck is the Rs 619-crore Chinchbhavan-MIHAN Interchange flyover project. Ongoing work has forced the NH division of the Public Works Department (PWD) to erect barricades along the median, narrowing the highway to a single lane in both directions. The stretch is crucial, serving as the primary access route for spectators travelling from the city to Jamtha Stadium. Reduced carriageway width, coupled with heavy traffic volume and frequent wrong-side driving, has already led to regular congestion.
A senior PWD official, however, maintained that precautions are being taken to minimise inconvenience.
“Barricading has been limited to a short stretch keeping the international match in mind. We have ensured smooth movement through service roads and kept obstructions to a minimum,” the official said.
Traffic challenges are also expected for spectators approaching from Wardha, Chandrapur, and nearby regions via Butibori, where ongoing MahaMetro work has further constricted the highway between Jamtha and Butibori. A senior traffic department official said diversion plans are being finalised to manage the rush.
“We are providing an alternative route from the Outer Ring Road through the National Cancer Institute (NCI) cutting to Jamtha Stadium. Some inconvenience may be faced by fans coming from Wardha, but steps are being taken to prevent major congestion,” the official said, adding that most spectators are expected from Nagpur city.
The traffic department has also urged cricket fans to use Metro services and public transport wherever possible.
“Heavy vehicle movement from Butibori will be restricted on match day to ease traffic flow,” the official added.
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