Pune: The old Katraj Ghat tunnel, a British-era structure estimated to be 150 years old, is facing serious structural concerns, prompting citizens to demand immediate repairs and a structural audit.
In January, a section of the tunnel collapsed, but the Public Works Department (PWD) has not yet carried out repairs. The ghat road is a crucial route used by thousands of vehicles daily, yet the absence of structural inspections raises concerns about its long-term safety.
During the previous monsoon, the tunnel experienced heavy water leakage. Residents have pointed out that while the new Katraj tunnel has proper lighting, the old tunnel remains in complete darkness, increasing the risk of accidents. The ghat road is also prone to rockslides, further adding to the safety hazards.
With the upcoming monsoon season, the PWD must implement effective drainage solutions inside the ghat and tunnel to prevent flooding and structural damage. Experts warn that failure to do so could further weaken the tunnel’s stability.
A large number of heavy vehicles pass through the tunnel daily, often scraping against its walls due to their size. This constant impact has caused portions of the tunnel to collapse in multiple incidents. While the PWD states that there is no immediate threat, they acknowledge that structural issues arise due to these heavy vehicle movements.
Survey and Repair Plans Underway
A comprehensive survey of the tunnel is currently being prepared. The District Planning Committee, in coordination with the District Collector’s Disaster Management team, will submit a funding proposal for restoration efforts. Additionally, the PWD Superintending Engineer will seek state budget allocations for tunnel maintenance.
"A proposal for tunnel repairs will be submitted to the District Planning Committee for funding, and necessary provisions will be sought in the state budget."
– Deven More, Branch Engineer, Public Works Department
