PUNE: Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) officials are set to address the accumulation of mud and debris on roads due to vehicles traveling to and from construction sites in the Megapolis Township area, in response to multiple complaints from Hinjewadi residents.
MIDC has directed construction site managers to ensure that vehicles transporting mud or materials are adequately covered and that the wheels are cleaned before leaving the site.
MIDC chief engineer Nitin Wankhede informed TOI that while these regulations exist, they are frequently overlooked, leading to ongoing issues. “If everyone abides by the rules, we wouldn’t have a problem,” he stated.
The engineer responsible for the area mentioned that his department has already issued letters and verbal notices to two construction sites, emphasizing that no debris or mud should be allowed outside the premises.
“The main issue arises when mud remains on the wheels of dumpers and heavy vehicles exiting the sites, which ends up on public roads. There should ideally be a washing area on these premises to clean the wheels, but since that isn’t in place, we instructed them to wash the wheels before departure. We also required the builders to clean any road dirt left by their vehicles, and they complied,” he explained.
He further stated, “We have also communicated with the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) to ensure that vehicles carrying materials to and from the construction sites are properly covered to avoid nuisance to nearby residents.”
However, local residents believe additional measures are necessary. Suresh Reve, secretary of Megapolis Sangria, which accommodates over 10,000 residents, noted that two-wheelers often skid due to the mud. “Parents taking their kids to school have encountered accidents from the slick roads. Noise from construction sites is another major concern. MIDC officials can’t be around all the time; builders should be held accountable,” stated Reve.
Another resident, Amol Pagare, confirmed that the road was cleaned recently. “But if actions aren’t continuous, it won’t make a lasting difference,” he emphasized.
Widespread Issues Throughout the City
This situation has prompted residents citywide to demand stricter enforcement of regulations on the movement of construction materials by heavy vehicles.
A resident from Baner remarked that both builders and authorities like the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and MPCB share responsibility, as they often fail to take action against rampant violations.
“The roads surrounding construction sites are in terrible condition. Constant heavy vehicle traffic creates uneven surfaces and potholes, with mud making roads perpetually slick. In summer, hardened mud blobs lead to serious skidding hazards for motorcyclists. Builders should face consequences for inconveniencing residents and commuters,” asserted the 48-year-old homemaker.
Numerous older societies are currently undergoing redevelopment in Kothrud, Karve Road, and Paud Road areas. Pradeep Kulkarni, a resident of Kothrud, remarked, “The roads outside construction areas are tough to manage. Many people rely on two-wheelers, and slippery roads can be deadly. We need PMC and MPCB to enforce compliance with norms and impose strict penalties on violators.”
