Lohegaon residents protest over absence of pedestrian crossing and other problems

By: Pune Pulse

October 17, 2023

Pune: The Lohegaon Residents Welfare Association (LRWA) organized a protest on Sunday to tackle the problem of road maintenance in Lohegaon. 

The event took place at 9 a.m. near Apple Chemist on Porwal Road to highlight the issue of large potholes on the roads and the lack of safe pedestrian crossings.

As per the information received, the deteriorating condition of the roads in Lohegaon has become a growing worry for residents. Additionally, road accidents are a daily occurrence. Frustrated by the perceived neglect from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), residents came together to demand proper facilities and the fulfilment of their basic needs.

One of the primary concerns raised by residents is the PMC’s lack of action in addressing these issues and providing essential amenities. The LRWA has urged the PMC to promptly respond to these concerns and provide the necessary facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of Lohegaon.

Speaking to Pune Pulse, Varun Kumar, Vice President, LRWA added, ”It has been observed that two accidents occur every week due to the poor condition of the roads. In various areas, such as Bharat Mata Road, Porwal Road, Sathe Vasti Road, Dhanori to Lohegaon Road, Aurum Elementto Road to Orchid Hospital, and Ajinkya DY Patil to PWC Road, there are no pedestrian crossings. We urge the PMC to take prompt action in this case. The roads in this area are frequently used by heavy vehicles such as water tankers and cement trucks. There are two to three well-known schools and several renowned hospitals. With over 70,000 residents in the area, pedestrian crossings are also an urgent necessity. Despite protesting for more than three years, we have not received a satisfactory response from the PMC.”

Pradip Modi, Treasurer, LRWA added, ”The poor condition of the roads in Lohegaon has become a matter of concern for the residents, and there are frequent reports of road accidents every day. The lack of infrastructure, such as speed breakers, pedestrian crossings, proper drainage systems, rampant encroachment, and no water supply from PMC, despite being the highest taxpayer in the newly incorporated village in PMC, has caused many problems. There is no proper development plan, and government officials and political leaders make false promises in every election. However, the LRWA has taken up this protest programme to awaken the sleeping officers and political leaders. Children, senior citizens, and young people from the area participated spontaneously in the protest against the PMC. In the future, if there is no change in this situation, agitations such as symbolic hunger strikes and roadblocks will be used.”

Ravi Ganachari, Secretary, LRWA added, ”Lohegaon roads are filled with potholes. Every week, due to the lack of pedestrian crossings, we witness at least 2 to 3 accidents. Jio cables are seen lying on Porwal Road. Societies are even facing issues with drinking water. The terrible state of the roads, combined with excessive dust and pollution, poses significant health risks. Prompt measures should be taken to avoid accidents.”

 Madhupriya Dhanwate