Khadki Cantt Commuters Battle Pothole-Induced Traffic Jams

Khadki Cantonment are increasingly frustrated with the worsening traffic congestion and chaotic road conditions resulting from extensive potholes across the region. The situation has deteriorated significantly, particularly on Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Bazaar Road, where substantial craters are disrupting traffic flow.

The most problematic area is beneath the Holkar Bridge, where drivers are frequently compelled to halt their vehicles and navigate treacherous road conditions. The problem is exacerbated during the monsoon season, when accumulated water obscures potholes, making driving hazardous. The Khadki Cantonment Board (KCB) has attributed the road deterioration to recent infrastructural work carried out by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). According to KCB officials, PMC’s pipeline installation near the Holkar water junction in July left the roads poorly repaired, blocking essential drainage systems. A senior KCB official, speaking anonymously, explained, “PMC’s excavation work was incomplete, which has been worsened by continuous rainfall and heavy vehicular traffic.” However, a representative from the PMC countered this claim, stating, “We fulfilled our obligations by paying the required digging charges. The responsibility for proper road repairs lies with the KCB.”

The 5km stretch of Ambedkar Road, stretching from Gurdwara Junction in the Khadki Bazaar area to Deccan College Chowk, serves as a crucial route for industrial traffic from Bhosari and Pimpri Chinchwad. Software engineer Deepak Patil, who commutes daily, remarked on the severe safety concerns due to the deteriorated road conditions, particularly at night when heavy vehicles are prevalent. “The condition of the roads makes safe driving nearly impossible. Immediate resurfacing by the KCB is essential,” he asserted. The problem extends to internal roads, including those in the Range Hills area and near the Khadki Police Station. Saket Joshi, a regular commuter, criticised the KCB’s inaction, stating, “The authorities seem indifferent to the severe pothole issue, which has turned commuting into a daily ordeal, especially during peak hours and night-time.”

The deteriorating road conditions are also affecting military personnel and defence civilians, who are expressing their discontent with the current situation. An army officer highlighted the increased travel time and called for a more effective maintenance strategy. “The KCB should have conducted thorough road surveys and repairs before the onset of the monsoon,” he said. Despite numerous complaints and requests for action, KCB Chief Executive Officer Minakshi Lohia has yet to respond to queries regarding the road maintenance issues. The ongoing neglect of road repairs continues to impact daily commuters and disrupt traffic flow in Khadki Cantonment, underscoring the need for immediate and effective intervention.