Pune: New Roads in Punawale, Wakad, and Ravet to Boost PCMC’s Connectivity Infrastructure

Pune, 14th December 2024: The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has initiated the construction of nine new roads across Punawale, Wakad, Kiwale, Ravet, and Tathawade. This important development aims to enhance the road network in these merged areas by more than 75%, addressing long-standing issues of narrow, deteriorated roads and traffic congestion.

Approved before the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct for the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Elections, the project seeks to provide better connectivity for residents and IT professionals commuting to the Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park. The current road infrastructure in these areas has been a major cause of dissatisfaction, with frequent complaints about potholes, insufficient width, and waterlogging.

Residents’ Perspectives and Key Improvements

Residents in Punawale and surrounding areas have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about resolving critical issues. Sumit Dhage, a local resident, stated, “The PCMC’s proposed plan covers almost 80% of the road network in my area. With the inclusion of stormwater and drainage lines, we hope the waterlogging problem will be addressed.”

Prajakta Rudrawar, president of the Ravet Kiwale Foundation, emphasized the need for proper speed breakers to reduce frequent accidents. “While the new roads will have stormwater and drainage lines, it’s vital for the municipal corporation to ensure these are connected to housing societies and residential structures,” she added.

Key Features of the Project

According to Makarand Kulkarni, City Engineer at PCMC, the new roads will incorporate crucial facilities like water supply, stormwater systems, and drainage lines. These were previously absent due to the roads not being built as per the development plan. The initiative also aims to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety standards by addressing the lack of speed breakers and upgrading road quality.

Historical Context and Growth Potential

Punawale, Wakad, Kiwale, Ravet, and Tathawade were merged into the PCMC in 1997 but have faced developmental delays since. Despite these challenges, these areas remain among the fastest-growing regions in Pimpri Chinchwad, underscoring the importance of robust infrastructure development.

This road project is a critical step toward resolving infrastructure gaps and meeting the demands of these rapidly developing localities.