Civic body fines contractor for negligence in refilling potholes under `Pothole-free Pune city’ campaign

A fine of Rs one lakh has been imposed on the contractor while issuing strict warning that if such incidents happen again, then the contractor will be directly blacklisted, he said.

A show-cause notice was served to the Deputy Engineer and Junior Engineer supervising the pothole-filling work at the said location and since their explanations were found to be unsatisfactory, the Deputy Engineer and Junior Engineer concerned were suspended, said Pawaskar.

The municipal commissioner reviewed the patch-work of roads at Swargate, Tilak Road, Shukrawar Peth, Rashtrabhushan Chowk, Kashewadi, New Timber Market, and Ramoshi Gate. The road widening work at Shankarsheth Road and Seven Loves Chowk was also inspected. “The municipal commissioner directed that the roads in Swargate and nearby areas be developed to their full width. It will be possible to reduce the accident proneness in traffic by implementing the necessary improvements,” he said.

Ram said instructions were also given to ensure that the chambers for rainwater and the chambers for drinking water valves, wherever found, are made level with the road surface.

The Pune civic body has been facing criticism for the potholes surfacing on city roads across the city that are leading to accidents. The unevenness of roads with drainage chambers either below or above the road level has also caused accidents. The potholes surfacing during the monsoon on city roads are yet to be completely repaired.

Pawaskar said the administration has speeded up the pothole-refilling work across the city and presently the focus is on old city area where the narrow roads are also been repaired.