Pune: PMC’s ‘Only 54 Potholes Left’ Claim Challenged As Activist Spots 25 On A Single 50-Metre Stretch
Pune: PMC’s ‘Only 54 Potholes Left’ Claim Challenged As Activist Spots 25 On A Single 50-Metre Stretch
Pune, July 28, 2026: Civic activist Vivek Velankar, President of Sajag Nagrik Manch, has questioned the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) claim that only 54 potholes remain across the city, alleging that the figure does not reflect the actual condition of Pune’s roads.
In a letter addressed to the Municipal Commissioner, Velankar criticised the PMC’s Road Department for what he described as unrealistic and misleading claims, stating that Pune residents continue to struggle with pothole-ridden roads and loose gravel caused by poor-quality repair work.
Highlighting one example, Velankar claimed that the 50-metre stretch between Vitthal Mandir in Navi Peth and Ganjwe Chowk contains around 25 potholes, suggesting that either these potholes were overlooked during inspections or they account for nearly half of the 54 potholes the civic body says remain citywide.
He remarked that Pune has witnessed the same problem every monsoon, with roads developing potholes despite repeated repair works. According to him, the civic body’s claim has only added to the frustration of residents who continue to face hazardous road conditions.
Velankar urged the Municipal Commissioner to personally inspect roads across the city instead of relying solely on official reports. He also demanded action against officials responsible for making what he termed exaggerated and inaccurate claims about the condition of Pune’s roads.
The letter comes amid growing public criticism over road maintenance in Pune during the ongoing monsoon season, with citizens repeatedly raising concerns over potholes, damaged roads, and delays in permanent repairs.
