Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) will soon initiate a structural audit of bridges built over the city's streams, culverts, and canals. The decision comes in the wake of growing concerns about the condition of these critical structures, some of which have aged significantly and may pose potential risks.

Pune features several major waterways, including Ambil Odha, Bhairoba Nala, and the Mutha Left Canal, traversing the urban and adjoining rural regions.

Over the years, the PMC constructed numerous small and large bridges across these waterways, facilitating heavy vehicular traffic daily. However, the absence of regular inspections has raised questions about their current state and safety.

To address these concerns, the PMC’s Special Projects Department will conduct a comprehensive structural audit to evaluate the existing condition of these bridges. The audit will provide vital insights into whether the bridges require repairs, reinforcement, or rebuilding.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Yuvraj Deshmukh, Chief Engineer of the Special Projects Department, stated, "The bridges over streams, culverts, and canals are functional, but their precise condition needs to be ascertained. The priority will be to undertake necessary repairs to prevent future hazards. This structural audit will guide us in making informed decisions about repairs and maintenance."

River Bridge Repairs: Phase Two in Progress

Two years ago, PMC carried out a structural audit of 38 bridges over rivers and allocated ₹35 crore for the repair works. In the first phase, repairs on 11 bridges were completed. The remaining 27 bridges are slated for repairs in the second phase, with budgetary provisions planned for the upcoming fiscal year. The tendering process for these projects has already begun, ensuring a systematic approach to infrastructure development.