Negligence During Cutting Tree Branches Leaves Young Man Critically Injured in Pune
Pune, 12 February 2026: A serious accident caused by negligence during tree branch cutting has left a young man critically injured in Karve Nagar, Pune. The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon near Meghraj Housing Society, close to Alankar Police Station, creating panic among local residents.
Two friends, Rameshwar Avtikar and Sudhir Landge, were travelling on a two-wheeler when they suddenly encountered a rope stretched across the road. The rope, tied as part of ongoing tree trimming work, was not clearly visible.
As the bike moved at speed, the rope struck Rameshwar directly on the neck, causing deep cuts and leading to heavy bleeding. Both riders were thrown off the vehicle and sustained injuries.
Local citizens immediately rushed the injured youths to a nearby private hospital. Doctors later confirmed that Rameshwar had suffered severe injuries to his neck and food pipe. His condition remains critical, while Sudhir Landge is also being treated for injuries.
The accident occurred during tree trimming work carried out by Meghraj Housing Society through a private contractor. Although permission had been obtained from the Warje–Karve Nagar ward office, mandatory safety protocols were ignored.
No prior intimation was given to the civic garden department, no authorised horticulture officer was present at the site, and police permission to block or regulate traffic was not taken.
Assistant Municipal Commissioner Asmita Tambe visited the hospital and reviewed the incident. She stated, “The society had permission to trim tree branches, but safety rules were clearly violated. Prior notice and police permission for road closure were mandatory. Further action will depend on the police investigation.”
Alankar Police have registered the incident and started a detailed probe to determine responsibility. Officials say the accident could have been avoided had basic safety norms been followed.
This incident once again highlights the recurring negligence seen in tree trimming activities across the city. Every year, unsafe handling of tree maintenance leads to injuries, loss of life, and property damage.
Delays in permissions, lack of supervision, and poor enforcement of rules continue to put citizens at risk. Authorities admit that stricter monitoring and accountability are urgently needed to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
