Repair potholes on Pune-Bangalore highway by August 15 or face legal action; Minister Shambhuraj Desai to NHAI

The Guardian Minister of Satara and Excise Minister, Government of Maharashtra, in a meeting with National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has clearly told them that they should repair the potholes on the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway by 15th August or face legal action.

Numerous large and small potholes on the national highway have emerged due to recent rains and have caused a lot of inconvenience to travelers. Many minor accidents have also taken place on the highway while avoiding potholes that suddenly come in front of vehicles. Recently, the Indian National Congress party held a protest highlighting the poor condition of the road.

Desai held a meeting with the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) officials in Satara on Monday and warned them of police cases against officials and contractors concerned if they failed to repair the roads before the deadline.

“If the potholes are not filled before August 15, then we will file cases against those responsible. The damage to the roads must be repaired immediately to avoid accidents. Apart from this, there are also economic losses due to bad roads. I have told NHAI officials to hold a separate meeting with the representatives of the transport association and pay heed to their concerns,” said Desai.

Desai said he has also told the public works department of state govt to repair state highways that have been damaged by rains at the earliest.

Recently, Congress party workers held demonstrations at five toll booths on the Pune-Kolhapur stretch of NH 48 and let vehicles pass without paying the toll charges. The Congress leaders demanded immediate repair of the roads and said until then, toll tax should be waived. The protest ended after NHAI officials assured a 25% immediate waiver and a 25% waiver after communicating with the road and highways ministry.