PMC Initiates Structural Audit of 672 Bridges in Pune
In a significant move to bolster the city’s infrastructure safety, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced a structural audit of all bridges under its jurisdiction. This initiative comes as a precautionary measure ahead of the monsoon, aiming to prevent potential structural failures and mitigate risks posed by ageing infrastructure. Pune’s landscape is crisscrossed by 672 bridges, including 434 spanning nullahs, as well as critical connectors over the Mula and Mutha rivers, which extend across 44 kilometres. The sheer scale of this network underscores the necessity of preemptive safety checks, especially as extreme weather events become more frequent. With 70 large bridges, 11 flyovers, 18 railway overbridges, 33 subways, and 108 small bridges under its watch, the PMC’s audit is expected to offer a comprehensive assessment of structural integrity and maintenance requirements.
To execute this large-scale evaluation, the civic body has appointed a consulting firm specialising in infrastructure assessment. According to Sanjay Patil, Executive Officer of PMC’s Project Department, the audit has been mandated by the State Public Works Department (PWD) to ensure the stability of Pune’s vital connectors. A budget of ₹10 crore has been allocated for the current fiscal year, with an additional ₹15 crore set aside in the next financial cycle. Structural engineers will lead the inspection, utilising advanced techniques to identify vulnerabilities. However, concerns remain over whether this initiative is a reactive measure following past collapses in other cities or a truly preventive approach. Given the rising instances of bridge collapses across India, the effectiveness of this audit will be closely monitored by urban planners and citizens alike.
From a sustainability perspective, the longevity and resilience of bridges play a crucial role in ensuring eco-friendly urban mobility. Well-maintained bridges not only facilitate smooth vehicular movement but also encourage non-motorised transport by providing safe pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. A proactive approach to structural health monitoring aligns with global sustainability standards, reducing the carbon footprint associated with constant reconstruction. In contrast, delayed maintenance can lead to emergency repairs, resulting in higher costs and increased environmental impact. The move to allocate dedicated funds for this audit signals an attempt to align with sustainable urban planning principles, yet its execution will determine whether it truly enhances the city’s long-term infrastructure resilience.
On the civic front, the bridge audit highlights the broader issue of urban infrastructure ageing faster than it is being maintained. Reports from across India indicate that bridge collapses often stem from a lack of timely inspections and repairs. As Pune expands rapidly, the strain on existing structures intensifies, making periodic audits essential. Residents and commuters have long raised concerns about deteriorating infrastructure, urging authorities to take preventive action rather than wait for disasters to strike. While PMC’s initiative is a step in the right direction, urban experts emphasise that such audits must be conducted regularly rather than as a one-time measure. With monsoon approaching, the success of this project will be measured by the administration’s ability to act swiftly on the findings, ensuring Pune’s bridges remain safe for all.
