Residents and political leaders in Pune's Karvenagar area have issued a stern demand for transparency, calling for an official progress report on the long-stalled Shivne–Kharadi riverbed road project. The demand comes after over twelve years of delays, with incomplete infrastructure creating daily chaos for commuters.
A Decade of Delays and Mounting Frustration
Local citizens allege that the critical infrastructure project has utterly failed to gather momentum. The work, which has been pending for an estimated 12 to 13 years, remains incomplete near key locations like Mahalaxmi Lawns, creating severe traffic bottlenecks. Sandeep Khardekar, a local resident and BJP leader, voiced the collective anger, stating, "The administration should publish a white paper on this road. The delayed work is making people suffer. It is not just locals but also commuters passing through who are facing problems."
Traffic Chaos and Safety Hazards
The incomplete project has triggered a cascade of traffic and safety issues across the area. Traffic flowing from Rajaram Bridge faces severe congestion at Vitthal Mandir Chowk. Furthermore, the stretch from Hotel Amchi to Navsahyadri Chowk, opposite Pandit Farms, has become a notorious hazard due to the absence of road dividers. "The lack of dividers has led to reckless driving and frequent accidents. Crossing the road at this point has become extremely difficult," explained a concerned resident.
Locals have also highlighted the absence of safe pedestrian crossings near crucial spots like Dnyanda School, Shubharambh Lawns, and Gharkul Lawns. They argue that installing proper crossings would protect students and pedestrians while helping to regulate vehicle speeds. Adding to the chaos, illegal hawkers and vendors occupying several spots along the road further exacerbate congestion. "The administration should take urgent steps to remove these hawkers to help reduce congestion," said resident Pratham Joshi.
Administration's Response and Land Hurdles
In response to the growing public outcry, civic officials from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) have stated that the Shivne–Kharadi road is being prioritized under the city's "missing links" project. However, they admitted that land acquisition remains a major hurdle preventing progress. Aniruddha Pawaskar, head of the PMC road department, outlined the ongoing efforts, "The administration is exploring various options, such as compulsory acquisition, to complete this road. Efforts for consensual acquisition are also underway. A meeting to finalise proposals is planned for next week."
A portion of the approximately 17-km long road was originally scheduled to be opened to the public as far back as 2018. The continued delay now affects the daily commute of thousands of Pune residents, underscoring the urgent need for resolution on this critical infrastructure project.
