The Hyderabad–Vijayawada National Highway witnessed heavy traffic during the Sankranthi festival, as lakhs of people travelled to their native places. Over a span of five days, more than three lakh vehicles moved on the highway in both directions, according to police estimates.
During the festival period, Hyderabad city appeared almost deserted. Roads across the city remained largely empty as residents, along with people from surrounding regions, travelled in large numbers to celebrate Sankranthi with their families. Most travellers preferred the Hyderabad–Vijayawada highway, leading to a sharp rise in vehicle movement.
Authorities reported that Saturday recorded the highest traffic, with 71,284 vehicles using the highway in a single day. Meanwhile, traffic remained consistently high on other days as well. On Friday, nearly 53,000 vehicles passed through the route. On Sunday, the number rose to 62,000 vehicles, followed by 56,000 vehicles on Monday and 62,000 vehicles on Tuesday.
At the Pantangi toll gate, officials counted 3.04 lakh vehicle movements over five days in both directions. Notably, traffic from Hyderabad to Vijayawada alone accounted for 2.04 lakh vehicles, highlighting the scale of outbound travel during the festive season.
Compared to last year, traffic patterns showed slight variation. During Sankranthi last year, around 2.07 lakh vehicles travelled through the same toll gate. This year, authorities initially expected similar numbers. However, ongoing underpass bridge construction works along the highway prompted many motorists to choose alternative routes. As a result, traffic distribution changed, even though overall travel demand remained high.
Police and highway officials actively monitored traffic flow throughout the festival period. They ensured smooth movement at toll plazas and diverted vehicles where necessary to prevent congestion. Despite the surge in traffic, authorities reported no major disruptions.
Overall, the figures underline the importance of the Hyderabad–Vijayawada highway during festive seasons. With infrastructure upgrades underway, officials expect traffic management to improve further in the coming months, especially during major holidays and peak travel periods.
For more latest updates, click here.
