Pune, 12 July 2025: In a significant move aimed at curbing accidents, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has approved a project worth ₹9.16 crore to reduce the steep slope at Gangadham Chowk, which has been the site of several fatal accidents in recent years. The proposal was passed in the Standing Committee meeting, and the related tender was also approved.
The road from Aai Mata Mandir towards Gangadham Chowk is currently dangerous due to its sharp descent, especially for heavy vehicles. Drivers often struggle to control their vehicles on this stretch, resulting in frequent collisions. Just two months ago, a woman tragically lost her life in one such incident involving a speeding truck. Locals have long demanded urgent intervention, citing rising accident rates.
Previously, the PMC had initiated a tender process to address the issue, but political interference led to its abrupt halt. However, the recent fatal accident served as a wake-up call for the administration. In response, the civic body has prioritized this roadwork project once again, ensuring that necessary approvals and planning move ahead without delay.
According to project plans, the current slope of the road is approximately 12.30 meters. The new design aims to reduce this gradient by about 2.5 meters. To achieve this, around 500 meters of the 600-meter stretch will be excavated. This excavation will require the relocation of existing utility lines, such as water supply, sewage, and storm water drains, which will either be shifted or newly installed as needed.
In addition to the main road, the project will consider the network of eight to nine internal lanes that feed into this stretch between Aai Mata Mandir and Gangadham Chowk. The road leveling will be coordinated to maintain alignment with these side roads. According to PMC Road Department head Aniruddha Pawaskar, the work will begin immediately after the monsoon and is targeted for completion before the next monsoon season begins.
