Pune PMC Enforces Leak-Free Tankers to Prevent Slippery Roads and Accidents
Pune has been grappling with a growing problem of slippery roads caused by water leakage from tankers, a situation that has escalated safety concerns, particularly for motorcyclists. In response to this, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has implemented new regulations aimed at addressing this hazardous issue. Starting from January 15, 2025, tankers that do not meet the required standards for water containment will be denied access to PMC tanker filling stations. This new rule mandates that all tankers must be equipped with secure lids and ensure no leakage during transportation.
The issue of water leakage is primarily linked to the city’s uneven water supply. With water shortages being a persistent challenge in Pune, citizens often rely on tanker services to meet their daily water needs. However, when water leaks from these tankers onto city roads, it creates a dangerous, slippery surface, especially when combined with oil leaks from vehicles. This results in a significantly heightened risk of accidents, particularly for bike riders, who are often the most vulnerable on such roads. Over the past year, reports have indicated an increase in such accidents, with numerous instances of bikers falling due to the wet roads, sometimes leading to serious injuries.
The PMC’s decision to enforce leak-free tankers is part of a broader initiative to improve road safety and urban cleanliness. According to Nandkishore Jagtap, the head of PMC’s Water Supply Department, the new regulations require tanker drivers to ensure their vehicles are leak-proof before filling water at PMC’s tanker filling stations. This mandate has been introduced after several complaints from citizens about hazardous road conditions caused by spilled water. Tankers that fail to meet these standards, even with a valid challan, will be denied service at the filling stations. The move has been welcomed by local residents, many of whom have expressed concerns about the dangers posed by wet roads in the absence of effective regulations.
The enforcement of this rule will take place in stages. Tanker drivers have been given a one-month grace period to comply with the new guidelines. Starting January 15, 2025, the PMC will strictly enforce the regulations, ensuring that only those tankers that are properly sealed will be allowed to refill. This initiative is not only aimed at reducing accidents but also plays a crucial role in fostering responsible urban water management practices. By ensuring that tankers do not leak during transport, the PMC hopes to reduce water wastage and improve the overall efficiency of its water distribution system.
From a sustainability perspective, the new regulation is a critical step in addressing the urban challenges faced by Pune. Water leakage from tankers is not only a road safety concern but also an environmental one. Wasted water, especially in a city facing water scarcity, contributes to inefficiency in urban resource management. By implementing this rule, PMC is not only prioritising safety but also taking steps towards ensuring that water resources are managed more responsibly. As urbanisation continues to increase the demand for water and transportation services, measures like these are essential to promoting sustainability and building safer, more efficient urban systems. This is a reminder that even small measures, such as regulating tanker water leaks, can have far-reaching impacts on both public safety and environmental conservation.