Pune, 25 March 2026: A shocking incident has surfaced in city, raising serious concerns over the safety of the underground Metro system. In Shukrawar Peth, a resident allegedly drilled a borewell directly above an operational Metro tunnel, damaging its concrete structure and creating a potentially dangerous situation.
The incident occurred at a house located opposite Khadak Police Station on Shivaji Road. The accused, identified as Dhananjay Mothe, reportedly began borewell drilling despite being aware that the underground Metro tunnel passes beneath his property along the Shivajinagar–Swargate route.
During the drilling process, a machine penetrated over 60 feet deep and broke through the concrete roof of the Metro tunnel, creating a hole approximately six inches in diameter. This breach compromised the structural integrity of the tunnel and posed a serious risk to Metro operations and passenger safety.
Fortunately, no Metro train was passing through the tunnel at the time of the incident, preventing what could have been a major disaster.
The issue first came to light on March 14, when a Metro train operator reported water leaking onto the tracks between Mandai and Swargate stations, specifically at ring sequence number 471. Initial internal inspections failed to identify the source of the leakage.
Metro officials then conducted a surface-level survey above the affected tunnel section. Their investigation led them to a plot in Shukrawar Peth where an old wada had recently been demolished and borewell drilling was underway without official permission.
Further inquiry with the contractor confirmed that no authorization had been obtained for the drilling work.
Following the discovery, MahaMetro officials rushed to Khadak Police Station and filed a complaint. A case has been registered against Dhananjay Mothe and an unidentified contractor, identified as Jagtap.
Authorities have invoked charges related to damage to government property and endangering public safety. The incident has triggered concerns over unauthorized construction and drilling activities in sensitive urban zones.
