Pune Camp’s key roads, managed by the Pune Cantonment Board (PCB). Areas around the Race Course, opposite the Empress Botanical Garden, and near the PCB office traffic signal have developed significant potholes, now filled with stagnant rainwater.
These potholes, often deep and expansive, have led to widespread debris and slippery surfaces, rendering the roads hazardous, particularly for two-wheeler riders. The dangerous condition of these thoroughfares is compounded by their annual deterioration during the monsoon season. Residents and daily commuters have expressed frustration over the recurring issue. They report that the roads have been problematic during previous monsoons as well, with the PCB’s attempts at repair largely ineffective. Observers note that the routine maintenance involves minimal patchwork rather than comprehensive repairs, which fails to address the root cause of the problem. One commuter using the Solapur highway commented, “The situation remains unchanged year after year. The traffic signal outside the PCB office is a constant trouble spot, filled with potholes that pose significant risks. The PCB’s repair efforts are insufficient and endanger lives, especially those of two-wheeler riders.”
A local parent, who regularly drops off their child near the Empress Botanical Garden, added, “The roads near the garden and Race Course grounds are perpetually riddled with potholes. Each rain spell seems to exacerbate the damage. Authorities appear more focused on assigning blame rather than implementing effective repairs.” Despite numerous attempts to reach the PCB’s Chief Executive Officer for comment, no response was received by the time of publication. The consistent failure to address these road issues highlights a broader systemic problem, where temporary fixes are preferred over sustainable solutions, leaving residents to navigate increasingly perilous conditions annually.
