Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority Takes Action to Fix Potholes on Under-Construstion Metro Route
The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has heeded the call of citizen and employee associations to address the issue of potholes on the roads along the under-construction Metro route in Hinjewadi IT Park. After widespread criticism on social media and videos shared by IT sector employees and celebrities, the PMRDA has instructed the contractors involved in the Metro project to fill all potholes within a week.
Concerns over Poor Road Condition and Accidents
The poor condition of the roads within Hinjewadi IT Park has caused distress among employees and residents. Due to the ongoing Metro works, the roads have deteriorated significantly, leading to waterlogging and numerous accidents. The frustration was amplified by social media posts featuring videos that showcased the alarming number of potholes in the area, resulting in widespread criticism and negative attention.
The PMRDA, as the authority responsible for the development of the Metro route connecting Shivajinagar to the Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjewadi, has acknowledged the issues and taken immediate action to resolve them. Rinaj Pathan, the chief engineer of PMRDA, stated that around 50 percent of the potholes have already been filled, and the remaining will be fixed on a priority basis. PMRDA has given clear directives to the concerned officials to address this problem promptly.
Maintaining Responsibility
Despite the area falling under the jurisdictions of Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, and PMRDA, the responsibility for maintaining the roads along the Metro route lies with the Metro concessionaire. Should the concessionaire fail to fulfill this responsibility, the PMRDA will step in to ensure the roads are properly maintained.
Hinjewadi IT Park is home to over 150 IT companies, employing more than four lakh people. Hence, the condition of the road infrastructure plays a pivotal role, as any disruptions can have a significant impact on daily commutes and overall development in the region.
Dyanendra Hulsure, the president of the Hinjewadi Employees and Residents Trust, highlighted the urgency in addressing the issue, with many IT employees on leave over the long weekend. As offices resumed, he expressed hope that the remaining potholes would be promptly fixed to restore smooth travel for employees and residents alike. The development and inclusion of smart infrastructure, especially in IT parks, are essential to ensure seamless connectivity and a conducive working environment.
With the PMRDA’s swift action, it is expected that the remaining potholes on the Metro route will be promptly seen to, preventing further accidents and inconveniences for the vast number of individuals commuting to and from Hinjewadi IT Park. Authorities must continue to prioritize well-maintained road infrastructure to facilitate growth in the IT sector and ensure a safe and efficient travel experience for everyone.
