At least five iron chambers on the busy 2-km stretch between Thermax Chowk in Bhosari and Khandobamala Chowk in Akurdi are death traps for commuters.
At least five iron chambers on the busy 2km stretch between Thermax Chowk in Bhosari and Khandobamala Chowk in Akurdi are death traps for commuters.
These iron chambers were laid on the roads so that they could be removed to clean the underground drainage pipes from time to time. These chambers also allow water to flow into the drainage pipes preventing accumulation of water on the roads, especially during monsoon.
The local residents alleged that they have been requesting the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) to replace these broken chambers since mishaps have been taking place at regular intervals. A local resident of Shahunagar, Thermax Chowk, William Naidu told DNA that it is extremely dangerous for any person who is new to the area either to drive or walk through the stretch.
“This road leads to the old Mumbai-Pune highway. Hundreds of vehicles, including two-wheelers ply on the road daily. It is ridiculous that the civic administration is doing nothing to replace the damaged chambers,’’ he said.
Naidu claimed he had apprised PCMC officials, the local corporator and former mayor Mangala Kadam of the issue but had not received any response. Naidu also said the authorities had replaced a broken chamber located near Thermax Chowk recently.
“But the quality of the new chamber is so inferior that the iron rods of the chamber are broken. Why can’t the authorities use quality material,’’ he questioned.
The labourers using the road complained that often their cycles get stuck in the broken chambers. It is very risky for pedestrians to walk on the road.
According to some residents, during monsoon, it would be extremely dangerous to use the road if the broken chambers are not replaced.
“We are paying taxes to the civic body. However, it is not concerned about our safety,’’ they said.
When contacted, PCMC engineering co-coordinator Dilip Kudale told DNA it is the responsibility of the respective wards to carry out works within their jurisdiction. Ward A officer Mustfa Phadnis was not available for comment.
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