Incomplete project is Pune residents' bane

The residents of Shimpi Lane in Pune Camp are annoyed over the roads dug up for the as yet incomplete water pipeline project in their area. The plan was launched to provide drinking water facility for households in the locality.

The work on the project, initiated by local MLA Ramesh Bagwe, started in June and pipes and dug up roads have made commuting a major problem for residents.

"The area was dug up in June, and the situation is the same even now. Neither has the water connection plan gathered any speed nor have the roads been attended to," Sanjay Sarolkar, a resident told DNA.

The poor condition of roads has caused minor accidents and falls. "My mother-in-law suffered a fall last week and injured her leg after tripping on the road. Earlier, my daughter, who was riding her bike, met with an accident due to the bad roads," Ujwala Sarolkar, who resides in the locality said.

The huge potholes created by the unattended pipeline project are filled with rain water and dirt, posing unhygienic conditions to residents.

"Water-logging has led to mosquito breeding. Moreover, the dug up roads have created holes through which mice and snakes can easily sneak into the locality," Sarolkar said.

Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) elected member, Sangita Pawar, blamed the monsoons for the delay in the work. "The heavy monsoon delayed the work. I assure you that it will be started at the earliest," she said.

PCB executive engineer, KV Shirodkar, said the matter has to be resolved in conjunction with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). "The PMC was to solve the problem. We will coordinate with the PMC and get the work done as soon as possible," Shirodkar said.