The Diamond Water Park road connecting Lohegaon and Wagholi in Pune remains in poor condition four months after it was dug up for water-supply and drainage pipeline work, leaving commuters to negotiate potholes, loose stones, mud and uneven surfaces. Residents say the deteriorated road has increased the risk of accidents, traffic congestion and vehicle damage.
The route is used daily by school buses, two-wheeler riders, local residents, office-goers and visitors to Diamond Water Park. During the monsoon, the road becomes slippery and difficult to navigate, particularly for two-wheeler riders. Residents said deep potholes, exposed stones and sudden changes in road level have made even short journeys hazardous.
Student Sai Vetal said he fell twice on the muddy road during August while travelling through the area. He also described an incident in which a woman travelling with two children on a two-wheeler reportedly lost control on the slippery surface, causing all three to fall and suffer injuries. Local resident Vijay Kakade said schoolchildren and senior citizens had also faced the risk of slipping on the mud.
The road was excavated several months ago to install water-supply and drainage pipelines. According to residents, the excavated portion was filled with soil instead of being properly restored through asphalt or concrete work. Rainfall subsequently worsened the surface, leaving an unfinished stretch that residents say they must deal with every day.
When Civic Mirror sought a response from the municipal administration, assistant municipal commissioner and ward officer Sanjay Pol said funds had been approved for repairing the road. He also said further information would be provided. The report does not specify the approved amount, the contractor responsible for the pipeline work or a date for the restoration work.
Residents of Dwarka Nagar said more than 1,000 families, three large schools and visitors to the water park were being affected. Arjun Gupta, a local resident, said the poor road had increased vehicle damage and fuel expenses, while auto-rickshaw and cab drivers were reportedly refusing to enter the area. Residents have sought immediate temporary repairs if permanent resurfacing is delayed.
Gupta said the road has an approved width of 24 metres, but only about 15 to 20 metres is currently available for use. The reduced usable width contributes to congestion during busy periods, residents said. They also expressed concern that an ambulance or fire engine could face difficulty reaching the area quickly during an emergency.
Civic Mirror had reported the condition of the road four months earlier, but residents said no substantial improvement had followed. They are seeking immediate levelling and temporary repairs, followed by permanent asphalt or concrete restoration. The municipal administration has said funds were approved, but the implementation timeline remains unspecified in the report.
