Pune: The road between Bhide Bridge and Rajput Vasti along the Mutha River has become increasingly dangerous due to non-functional streetlights, despite the floodwaters receding several days ago.
The road was submerged after heavy rains in July, but the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) electrical department has not yet restored the streetlights, causing multiple accidents as two-wheeler riders navigate the treacherous, pothole-filled road.
In July, heavy rainfall led to the release of 45000 cusecs of water from Khadakwasla Dam into the Mutha River, causing flooding in nearby residential areas.
While the floodwaters have since receded, the PMC has overlooked the condition of the riverside road, a daily route for thousands of two-wheeler riders.
In response to the flooding, the municipal corporation cut off the power supply to streetlights on the stretch between Jayant Tilak Bridge and Rajput Vasti.
Although it has been four or five days since the floodwaters receded, streetlights between Tilak Bridge and Bhide Bridge have been restored, but the stretch from Bhide Bridge to Rajput Vasti remains in darkness.
The road has become hazardous due to potholes and the erosion of gravel caused by the flood, with some areas still waterlogged. This has led to accidents as two-wheeler riders slip in the dark.
However, the municipal corporation has yet to restore the streetlights. Superintendent Engineer Manisha Shekatkar stated, "Some poles were washed away during the flood, which is why the streetlights have not been turned on. Repairs will be carried out promptly in this area."
