Pune, 24 February 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is facing criticism after road chambers along the route of the international-level ‘Pune Grand Tour’ cycling event began sinking barely a month after the works were completed.
The civic body had spent ₹145 crore on resurfacing and beautifying nearly 75 kilometres of roads for the event held in January.
Ahead of the competition, PMC undertook extensive repairs including asphalt resurfacing, levelling of chambers, repainting of lane markings, zebra crossings, pedestrian pathways and dividers.
The upgraded stretch was widely appreciated by citizens as it improved driving comfort and enhanced the city’s appearance.
Of the total expenditure, around ₹15 crore was reportedly spent without tender under urgent works to raise and level road chambers along the cycling route. At the time, the administration maintained that the works were essential to meet international standards and ensure safety for participants.
However, complaints have now emerged that several chambers on the route have started sinking, pointing to alleged substandard work. Citizens including Deepak Waghmare and Vivek Velankar have approached the civic administration, alleging poor-quality chamber repairs and demanding a thorough inquiry into the matter.
Responding to the issue, Additional Municipal Commissioner Omprakash Divte said the damaged chambers would be repaired by the same contractor responsible for the original work.
He added that around 1,500 chambers across the city are planned to be repaired in the coming year and proper care will be taken. He clarified that no separate inquiry will be conducted into the damaged chambers.
