Pune-Solapur Highway Deteriorates Rapidly, Sparking Public Outrage
The Pune-Solapur National Highway, renovated just eight months ago, is now crumbling, causing significant inconvenience and safety concerns for commuters. Citizens and political leaders are questioning the quality of work and demanding accountability.
Punesolapur HighwayRoad QualityPublic WorksNhaiMonsoon DamageReal Estate PuneMay 30, 2025
The resurfacing of this section of the highway had come at a multi-crore cost, despite the earlier condition of the road being reportedly acceptable. Now, just a few early monsoon showers have exposed the poor workmanship—the top layer has peeled off, and gravel is scattered across the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
In a prior session of the state legislature, former Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan admitted that some parts of the highway project were poorly executed. This acknowledgment came in response to concerns raised by MLA Bhimrao Tapkir, who questioned the quality of the roadwork. While Chavan claimed that repairs had been carried out by the contractor, on-ground conditions show no visible improvement.
Rahul Shewale, General Secretary of BJP’s Pune district unit, also voiced strong displeasure:
“The highway has disintegrated due to poor-quality work. Negligence by officials has led to crores of public money going to waste.”
According to Atul Surve, Section Engineer from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI):
“Water is stagnating due to silt and debris dumped by nearby businesses into drainage lines. This is causing the gravel to come loose. A notice has been sent to the contractor, and urgent repairs will be carried out.”
Citizens allege that officials were already alerted in writing about the substandard work. Locals had previously met NHAI officer Shruti Naik, requesting her to instruct the contractor to ensure better quality. However, these concerns were ignored, and today’s road conditions are a direct consequence of that neglect, residents say.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Pune-Solapur Highway deteriorating so quickly?
The highway has started crumbling due to poor-quality workmanship and inadequate maintenance. Early monsoon showers have exacerbated the problem, causing the top layer of asphalt to peel off and gravel to scatter across the road.
Who is responsible for the maintenance of the Pune-Solapur Highway?
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is responsible for the maintenance of the Pune-Solapur Highway. They are the primary authority tasked with ensuring the road remains in good condition.
What has been the response of the government to the deteriorating condition of the highway?
Former Public Works Minister Ravindra Chavan admitted in the state legislature that some parts of the highway project were poorly executed. However, despite claims of repairs, the conditions on the ground have not improved significantly.
What are the main concerns raised by the public regarding the highway's condition?
The public is concerned about the poor quality of work, the risk of accidents due to loose gravel and eroded asphalt, and the wastage of public funds. They are demanding accountability and better maintenance from the authorities.
What steps are being taken to address the issues with the highway?
The NHAI has issued a notice to the contractor and is planning to carry out urgent repairs. However, residents are skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures and are calling for more comprehensive action to prevent future issues.
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