After the tragic collapse of the Kundamala pedestrian bridge, which resulted in multiple casualties, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has initiated a comprehensive and expedited programme to assess and repair the city’s ageing infrastructure. This decisive action underscores the administration’s commitment to public safety and proactive urban management.
The Kundamala incident, which occurred on June 15, 2025, highlighted significant vulnerabilities in Pune’s older infrastructure. The footbridge, constructed over three decades ago, had been declared unsafe; however, it remained accessible to the public, leading to overcrowding and subsequent structural failure. The collapse resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries, prompting immediate governmental response. In response, the PMC has undertaken a structural audit of all 672 bridges across the city, including those spanning the Mula and Mutha rivers, nullahs, and various transportation overpasses. This audit aims to identify and address potential hazards before the onset of the monsoon season. The initiative is part of a broader state mandate following similar incidents elsewhere in Maharashtra.
Preliminary findings from the audit have identified 38 bridges, primarily those over a decade old, as requiring urgent repairs. The PMC has already completed repairs on eight critical structures, including the V. Bha. Patil Bridge in Bopodi, Veer Savarkar Flyover at Paud Phata, and Rajiv Gandhi Bridge in Aundh. The remaining 30 bridges are scheduled for phased repairs to minimise traffic disruptions. The city’s infrastructure is diverse, encompassing colonial-era structures like the Holkar Bridge and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bridge, as well as modern flyovers and pedestrian subways. This blend of heritage and contemporary design presents unique challenges in balancing preservation with safety upgrades.
The PMC’s repair strategy includes replacing outdated bearings and expansion joints, resurfacing roadways, and reinforcing structural components to extend the lifespan of these bridges. For instance, the Sadhu Vaswani Bridge underwent significant maintenance after cracks were detected in its pillars and bearings, highlighting the need for regular inspections and timely interventions. Beyond structural repairs, the PMC is implementing measures to enhance public awareness and safety. Over 500 tourist spots within the district are under scrutiny, with tehsildars instructed to install cautionary signage and restrict access to high-risk locations. Additionally, mock drills are being conducted, and control rooms will operate 24/7 during the monsoon to coordinate emergency responses.
The tragic events at Kundamala have catalysed a city-wide reevaluation of infrastructure safety protocols. The PMC’s proactive approach aims not only to repair and reinforce existing structures but also to foster a culture of vigilance and accountability in urban planning and maintenance. As Pune continues to grow, ensuring the safety and reliability of its infrastructure remains paramount. The lessons learned from the Kundamala incident are steering the city towards a more resilient and responsive urban framework, where public safety is integrated into every aspect of development and governance.
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