Pune: Swargate Bus Depot Falls Back Into Disrepair; Potholes & Drainage Failures Trigger Passenger Outrage (PHOTOS) | FPJ Photo
Six months ago, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) claimed it had resolved Swargate Bus Depot’s waterlogging, potholes and drainage issues by constructing a new asphalt road. However, the situation has reverted and, in fact, has worsened.
The roads are riddled with multiple water-filled potholes, posing a significant risk to buses and passengers. The repaired drainage system is in a deplorable state with broken covers. Water from the washrooms is overflowing onto the premises, causing a foul odour and creating an unhygienic environment.
Passengers are outraged at the depot’s deteriorating state, blaming the use of substandard materials and alleging corruption by contractors.
Shivani Gaud, a passenger and resident of Kasba Peth said, “The authorities must stop profiting at the cost of public safety. Everything was fine for a short period, but now the roads are full of potholes again, and the drainage is a mess. This is nothing but a waste of public money. How can the situation be the same in just 4-5 months?”
“The cleanliness situation at the depot is worse. Washroom water is consistently spread across the premises, leading to a foul smell and an unhygienic environment for the passengers. Chairs at the depot are less in number, forcing people to sit on the ground. The authorities seem more interested in making money than ensuring basic infrastructure,” she added.
Rajeev Kshirsagar, a commuter who was heading to Kolhapur, said, “The depot has become a hotspot for drunkards, raising safety concerns for passengers.” Pointing to beer bottles lying near platforms, Kshirsagar added, “It is hard to tell if the beer was consumed by any passengers, outsiders or even drivers. It is unsafe and unacceptable for any passengers. It is a matter of life for thousands of passengers. Who will be responsible if any unfortunate incident occurs?”
Meanwhile, Pramod Nehul, Pune Divisional Controller, MSTRC, speaking to this newspaper, said, “We have prioritised the matter. MSTRC will repair the road infrastructure in three phases. The first phase of work starts on January 15, and the remaining two phases will be finished in March. The government has sanctioned a budget of ₹1.2 crore.”
“All the places will be cleaned up soon and security will be tightened. Drainage lines will be built newly for permanent solutions. People will not face the waterlogging and potholes issues in the upcoming monsoon seasons,” he added.
