Wagholi residents irked over poor condition of roads and footpaths

By: Pune Pulse

October 12, 2023

Pune: The section of road extending from Wagheshwar temple to Lifeline Hospital in Wagholi Gaon is in urgent need of repair. This particular stretch was developed a few years ago for Rs 11 crore by the PMRDA.

However, the road and pavements quickly deteriorated, raising concerns about the quality of the construction. Wagholi, which has now been incorporated into the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), experiences significant traffic congestion daily along this road. Subsequently, responsibility for the road was transferred to the PMC road department.

The road and pavements are currently in a dilapidated state due to the poor quality of work carried out by the contractor. Commuters and pedestrians face daily difficulties as the pavements are broken and no maintenance is being carried out, despite the necessity. As a result, traffic congestion has become a major issue.

Speaking to Pune Pulse, Sanjeevkumar Patil, added, “The stretch was developed by the PMRDA at a significant cost. However, the entire stretch is filled with potholes that are two feet deep, causing great inconvenience to commuters. Although a drainage line has been installed, it has not been connected to anything. Consequently, rainwater accumulates in the line and spreads all over the road, increasing the risk of accidents. The condition of the footpath is also extremely poor. The PMRDA has wasted 11 crore rupees.”

Another resident, Santosh Krishna, added, “The presence of potholes on the roads poses a significant threat to commuters. Additionally, encroachments make the footpaths unusable. As a result, residents are forced to walk on the roads, increasing the risk of accidents.”

Siraj Dokadia, another resident, further commented, “The presence of potholes on the road causes problems for commuters. The deplorable condition of the footpaths forces pedestrians to walk on the road. Traffic congestion is a major concern. We have requested CCTV cameras to monitor the situation, but the police have informed us that the PMC is not providing cameras.”

Speaking to Pune Pulse, Sahebrao Dandge further stated that diligent measures are taken to promptly address the poor condition of footpaths. However, there have been instances where certain blocks are removed by other departments for pipeline repairs, yet they neglect to restore them, consequently leading to the deterioration of footpath conditions.

Speaking to Pune Pulse, Madhav Jagtap, Deputy Commissioner of the Encroachment Department, emphasized that encroachments are promptly removed following thorough inspections, and appropriate fines are imposed as necessary.

Madhupriya Dhanwate