Pune: Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale has issued a stern warning to Ganesh Mandals causing damage to city roads while setting up pavilions for the upcoming Ganesh festival.

Complaints have been pouring in from citizens about mandals digging up roads, and the commissioner emphasized that it is the responsibility of these organizations to restore the roads to their original condition. Failure to do so could result in punitive action, including the revocation of municipal permissions.

Several Ganesh Mandals have reportedly excavated portions of the road to erect their festival structures, leading to inconvenience and safety hazards for commuters.

Addressing the issue, Dr. Bhosale stated, "Mandals must ensure that any damage caused during pavilion construction is promptly repaired. Negligence in this matter will not be tolerated, and appropriate measures will be taken against defaulters."

In addition to potential legal action, the municipal corporation may also withdraw permissions granted to mandals that fail to comply with restoration directives. The commissioner urged all festival organizers to act responsibly and cooperate with civic authorities to ensure smooth and safe festivities.

Special Pothole Repair Drive Initiated Amid Heavy Rains

The city has been grappling with severely damaged roads following incessant rainfall over the past week. Previously repaired potholes have resurfaced, and new ones have appeared across various parts of Pune, causing significant disruption to daily traffic and posing risks to motorists.

In response, Dr. Bhosale has directed the municipal road department to launch an immediate and intensive pothole repair drive.

"As soon as there is a respite from the rain, teams will be deployed to address the pothole issue ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi," he said. A similar operation is planned five days before Anant Chaturdashi to ensure road safety during the festive period.

The commissioner also assured that comprehensive road repair work would be undertaken post-monsoon to provide long-term solutions to the city's infrastructure challenges.

He appealed to citizens for patience and cooperation during the repair activities and reiterated the administration's commitment to maintaining road safety and quality.