Pune : NIBM Road Residents Struggle with Commute as Cloud 9 Road Project Lingers

Residents living along NIBM road and its surrounding areas are voicing their concerns over the delayed Cloud 9 road construction project initiated by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). The ongoing closure of the road for the past two months has caused significant inconvenience for residents living ahead of Cloud 9. They have been forced to take longer routes via NIBM – Undri road to reach NIBM road.

While there is a sense of relief among residents with the impending opening of one side of the road for vehicles, they have now raised an important issue regarding the road’s construction. The current footpath is at the same level as the road, posing a risk to pedestrian safety. Residents are calling for the PMC to construct a raised footpath to provide a safer walking space for residents.

A resident of Sunshree Gold highlighted the potential dangers of having the road and footpath at the same level and emphasized the need for elevated footpaths to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

Another resident of NIBM road, Madhu Thawani, expressed frustration over the chaotic traffic situations at key junctions since the road closure. With the reopening of schools, the congestion has doubled, causing fatigue among students and traffic jams, especially at Marvel Sangria crossing and Hill N Dales crossing. The contractor responsible for the project has failed to meet the scheduled completion dates, leaving the road closed for an extended period.

In response to these concerns, Avinash Kamthe, an engineer from the Pune Municipal Corporation, stated that the raised footpath could be considered in the project’s second phase. The current priority is to open the road to the public, which is expected to happen within a week.

Lalita Thakur, a resident of Raheja Vista, expressed the difficulties faced in taking a detour via Undri to reach the Nine Hills side of Raheja Vista. The prolonged road closure has caused inconvenience and frustration for residents.

A resident of Kumar Palmspring complained that with the schools reopening , the traffic will turn worse. Immediate action is required or in this heat children will reach home really late. PMC should expedite the work and open the road shortly to avoid further problems in the area. 

The residents are hopeful that the PMC will address their concerns and prioritize the construction of a raised footpath along with the completion of the road to ensure the safety and convenience of pedestrians and commuters in the NIBM area.