Pune: Persistent Waterlogging on Sinhagad Road Causes Hardship for Motorists and Residents

Pune: Rainwater accumulation along the stretch of Sinhagad Road between Nanded Phata and Khadakwasla has become a significant concern, especially for commercial motorists and local residents. The issue arises from the absence of proper rain drainage to drain water from the roadside, causing water to pool after every rainfall.

The stretch from Khadakwasla to Nanded Fata is entirely made of cement, and during the construction of this cement road, no provisions were made for rainwater drainage. As a result, rainwater and polluted runoff flow directly onto the road. The uneven surface further exacerbates the problem, leading to large puddles forming in various areas, which makes it difficult for drivers to gauge the road conditions.

The problem is particularly severe in the Jadhav Nagar and Nanded Phata areas, where large sections of the road remain submerged for extended periods. The main entrance to the National Water Academy, located on Sinhagad Road, is one of the most affected spots, with significant water accumulation making the road treacherous.

The road is crucial for citizens, students, and farmers from the Panshet and Donaje areas who constantly travel on it. However, the constant waterlogging forces college students, cyclists, and farmers to wade through stagnant water conditions. The absence of rain drainage means that water frequently spills onto the road, and even a small amount of rainfall can result in waterlogged conditions.

The stagnant water has led to an increase in mosquito breeding, posing a health risk to the people living here. The accumulated water also emits a foul odour, affecting local shopkeepers. Many business owners along the road have reported that the smell and unsanitary conditions are driving away customers, resulting in a loss of business.

The root cause of the issue lies in the poor planning and execution of the road construction. The lack of levelling during the roadwork has led to the formation of water traps along the route. While the road was being widened, no provisions were made for rainwater drainage.

Narendra Hagawane, former deputy sarpanch of Kirkatwadi, expressed his frustration, saying, “The accumulation of water on the roads raises serious questions about how to navigate through it. Even walking becomes a challenge, as rickshaws splash dirty water onto pedestrians, ruining their clothes. The stagnant water in front of shops deters customers from entering. The Municipal Corporation must find a permanent solution to this problem.”

Dnyaneshwar Rathod, Branch Engineer of the Public Works Department, acknowledged the issue, stating, “Maintenance and repair work is managed by the contractor, Roadway Solution Company. We have repeatedly informed them about the need for road repairs, but they have been ignoring the issue. We will take action against them. Meanwhile, we are undertaking the repair work at our level.”