Pune’s infrastructure is facing a mounting challenge as widespread road digging for drainage and water supply projects continues across the city, raising serious concerns about the upcoming monsoon season.
Citizens fear that unfinished works will not only exacerbate the already perilous condition of roads but could also lead to increased traffic congestion, heightened accident risks, and the spread of pollution. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is currently overseeing major road excavation activities, targeting key areas like Prabhat Road, Karvenagar, Bibvewada, Dhayari, and Narhe. These projects, which have been underway for months, are aimed at improving drainage systems and water supply infrastructure. However, with the deadline of May 31 set by PMC for completion fast approaching, many are sceptical. Historical delays and missed deadlines in similar projects have only added to public unease, leaving citizens doubting whether the PMC will meet its ambitious timeline.
One of the major grievances voiced by Pune’s residents is the lack of coordination between multiple agencies working on different projects in close proximity. With roads being dug up for various utilities simultaneously, even bylanes and internal roads have been affected, severely limiting alternative routes for commuters. This has led to significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, making daily commutes more time-consuming and frustrating. A resident of Bhandarkar Road highlighted the lack of planning and urged PMC officials to address this issue promptly. According to her, better coordination among different departments would help alleviate many of the ongoing problems, particularly those related to traffic management. In the Prabhat Road area, a similar sentiment prevails. Residents have pointed out that better collaboration between civic authorities and the traffic police could go a long way in easing congestion. With traffic wardens often absent from crucial spots, local residents have taken it upon themselves to manage traffic flow during the peak hours. Many believe that the administration must deploy more traffic personnel, especially around high-traffic zones where roadworks are ongoing.
In the Narhe-Dhayari stretch, the situation is even more dire. Here, the stormwater drainage work, which began towards the end of last year, has contributed to a persistent traffic nightmare. Power outages in the area have left commuters vulnerable to open trenches, raising safety concerns. Additionally, an incident earlier in the year where gas supply was disrupted due to the ongoing works only highlights the lack of effective oversight. Residents have voiced their frustrations, calling for strict enforcement of project deadlines to ensure timely completion and minimal public inconvenience. The impact of the ongoing roadworks extends beyond traffic and safety concerns. The dust generated by excavation activities has posed significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. With the monsoon season just around the corner, there is also the added concern that the dug-up roads will worsen the already deteriorating conditions. The prospect of unchecked water logging and potholed roads has left many worried about the city’s preparedness for heavy rains.
PMC officials, however, insist that they are aware of these challenges and are making concerted efforts to streamline operations. An official from the road department mentioned that various agencies have been granted permission to dig roads after thoroughly scrutinising their project deadlines. He assured residents that efforts are being made to avoid redundant work and repeated digging at the same locations. The PMC is also monitoring the quality of road restoration works to ensure that the roads are in a suitable condition post-restoration. Despite these assurances, citizens remain unconvinced. In areas like Baner-Balewadi, residents have expressed frustration over increased travel times due to roadwork-induced traffic jams. They worry that without proper management, the ongoing works could spell disaster when the rains hit, further worsening the traffic situation and safety risks. As the city inches closer to the monsoon season, Pune’s residents are hoping for more effective coordination and timely project completion. With the pressing need for improved infrastructure to support the growing population, it remains to be seen whether PMC can address these concerns in a way that ensures the safety and convenience of all citizens.
