Pune, 14 June 2025: Relentless rainfall over the past few days has left Pune’s roads severely waterlogged, with ongoing metro construction debris adding to the city’s traffic chaos and commuter frustration.

Taking serious note of the situation, Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar has issued a strict two-day ultimatum to metro officials and the traffic department to clear all construction debris from metro project sites. Failure to do so will invite punitive action, he warned during a recent review meeting.

Pawar held the metro construction responsible for worsening traffic jams, particularly pointing out the obstructions along the Hinjewadi-Tata Metro corridor. He declared that if debris and blockages in this key area are not removed by Monday, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) will face a penalty notice of ₹10 crore.

The swift pace of metro development has resulted in heaps of debris, which recent rains have turned into slushy hazards, deteriorating road conditions and causing traffic gridlocks. Daily commuters, especially IT professionals passing through Hinjewadi, and religious devotees travelling on the Palakhi route have been hit hardest, often spending long hours stuck in jams.

During the meeting, attended by senior traffic officials and metro representatives, Pawar expressed strong displeasure at the lack of coordination and the impact on Pune’s transportation network. He stressed that while the metro project is vital for the city’s future, it must not come at the expense of public convenience and safety.

Residents have echoed Pawar’s concerns. “Every day we struggle because of the rainwater mixing with construction waste on the roads,” said a local commuter.

Pawar’s stern directive underscores the administration’s resolve to address the immediate hardships faced by citizens. The coming days will reveal whether metro authorities comply with the deadline or face hefty penalties.