Pune: The onset of the monsoon has exacerbated the condition of Pune’s roads, with potholes appearing at various locations, creating significant hazards for motorists. Commuters have reported that roads such as JM Road and Apte Road have developed large potholes, posing a serious risk to daily travellers.
A frequent commuter on JM Road highlighted a particularly large pothole on Apte Road, urging authorities to monitor key roads continuously to ensure timely repairs. The call for action has been echoed by numerous commuters who are grappling with not only potholes but also broken and uneven drainage lids and obstructed stormwater lines, which are causing further disruptions to the flow of traffic. Regular users of Ganeshkhind Road have pointed out that the road has become increasingly bumpy due to its uneven surface and ongoing Metro construction. A resident of Aundh stated, “The ride has become very uncomfortable due to the potholes and uneven road surfaces. The Metro work from Agriculture College Chowk to University Chowk has taken up most of the road space, making the extreme left lanes unusable.”
The city experienced significant rainfall in the first week of June, which has worsened the road conditions. Travellers have noted a marked deterioration, with a particularly dangerous situation at Govt Hatcheries Chowk where a drainage chamber lid has broken, obstructing traffic. The damage, discovered after the initial rainfall, has led to the area being barricaded to prevent accidents. Officials from the civic administration’s road department have acknowledged the issue and stated that road maintenance vans have been deployed across all six zones for repair works. However, civic activists are pressing for immediate action. “Road resurfacing and the repair of broken lids should be prioritised before the rain returns,” urged a civic activist.
The deteriorating state of Pune’s roads has raised significant concerns among residents, with many calling for more proactive measures from the authorities. Continuous monitoring and prompt repairs are essential to ensure the safety of motorists and to maintain the smooth flow of traffic. The situation underscores the need for robust infrastructure planning and swift execution of maintenance works to mitigate the impact of the monsoon on the city’s roads. The recent rainfall has highlighted the vulnerabilities in Pune’s infrastructure, prompting a reassessment of current maintenance strategies. With the monsoon season far from over, it remains crucial for the municipal authorities to address these issues urgently, ensuring that the city’s roadways are safe and navigable for all users.
