Pune, 19 November 2025: Citizens in Warje exposed poor-quality roadwork after videos showing substandard asphalting went viral on social media. Following the public outcry, the contractor responsible has been fined ₹1 lakh.
Meanwhile, two engineers from the road department have been suspended for negligence in supervising the work, sending a strong signal against substandard execution.
The Pune Municipal Corporation recently launched its pothole-free campaign, inaugurated by Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram. It was expected that the quality of road repairs would improve under this initiative.
However, the contractor in Warje laid asphalt directly on soil without proper compaction, causing layers of asphalt to peel off. A young citizen filmed the shoddy work, and the video quickly went viral, sparking criticism of the civic administration.
After the issue was brought to the Commissioner’s attention, he imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on the contractor and warned that any repeat offence would lead to blacklisting. The junior and deputy engineers responsible for overseeing the project were issued show-cause notices. As their explanations were deemed unsatisfactory, the Commissioner ordered their suspension.
Meanwhile, Commissioner Ram inspected ongoing roadwork in densely populated areas of the eastern part of Pune, including Shukrawar Peth and Kashewadi. He reviewed pothole-filling, resurfacing work, and widening projects in multiple areas such as Tilak Road, Swargate, Wadia Hospital, and New Timber Market.
He instructed officials to increase the resurfacing area wherever possible to improve road quality. Directions were also given to fix sunken stormwater drains and sewage chambers to match road level.
The Commissioner also expressed displeasure over the non-use of newly purchased sensor paver blocks, which remain unused at the Hirabaug asphalt yard. During his inspection, he noted scrap material and poor hygiene at the site and reprimanded officials, emphasizing the need for better efficiency and cleanliness.
