Pune: Pune residents are growing increasingly frustrated as infrastructure projects across the city continue to cause road blockages and traffic disruptions. Commuters have reported significant inconveniences due to heavy vehicles stopping near construction zones, poor road restoration, and lack of proper pedestrian access.
One daily commuter on University Road pointed out that trucks loaded with construction materials frequently block sections of the road, leading to severe traffic congestion. Another local resident, who recently visited Model Colony, highlighted the issue of roads being left in a damaged state after civil works, causing further issues for both drivers and pedestrians. He also noted that heavy vehicles are still being allowed to ply during restricted daytime hours.
A schoolteacher who visited the Swargate area expressed concerns about the Metro construction barriers obstructing vehicle movement, while pedestrians are forced to navigate encroached footpaths due to ongoing construction work. “Pedestrian safety seems to be overlooked during these projects,” she commented.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is currently overseeing several projects, including road widening, drainage repairs, pipeline replacements for the 24×7 water supply initiative, and the Metro expansion. PMC has set a deadline of May 31 for contractors to complete significant works and repair damaged roads. Following this date, any further digging will only be permitted in emergency situations or under special circumstances.
Civic activists have raised alarms about contractors consistently missing deadlines and have called on the PMC to impose stricter accountability measures. In response, PMC officials have assured that contractors have been warned against occupying excessive road space. They also pledged that inspections will be carried out to ensure safety measures, including appropriate barricading, are in place. Additionally, contractors have been instructed to restore roads properly once their work is completed.
