Maharashtra: PWD minister directs officials to immediately fill potholes on Mumbai-Nashik highway

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Maharashtra PWD minister Dada Bhuse has directed officials to immediately fill potholes on the Mumbai-Nashik highway section to avoid traffic snarls and accidents.

He also said wardens should be appointed to help the police and called for coordination among various agencies.

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Notably, at least six persons were killed and as many injured in a collision between a container truck and an SUV on the highway on Tuesday.

Bhuse, who belongs to Shiv Sena (UBT), inspected the ongoing work on the Vadpe-Thane section of the highway on Tuesday and suggested various measures to avoid traffic jams, as per an official release.

The minister took stock of the eight-layer concreting work of the Vadape-Thane asphalt road.

He said Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDA) should provide traffic wardens to help the police.

"Potholes on roads should be filled immediately. If a vehicle is stuck on the road it should be removed immediately to avoid traffic jams," the minister added.

Meanwhile, the motorists travelling via the Mumbai-Nashik highway are once again facing the recurring issue of uneven road surfaces and potholes. Frustrated by the lack of improvement, motorists express their anger at the authorities responsible. The highway, a crucial link between Mumbai and Nashik, sees heavy daily usage. Last year, mid-day had already highlighted the poor condition of the highway during the monsoon season.

A motorist complained about the hazardous potholes and uneven road surface, posing a threat to the lives of motorists and two-wheeler riders. He expressed his frustration, stating, "This problem repeats every monsoon, and the authorities seem least concerned about the toll-paying motorists."

The presence of potholes on this highway not only causes inconvenience but also forces drivers to spend additional money on vehicle maintenance. Common issues faced by drivers include tire punctures, suspension damage, wheel alignment problems, and even damage to the vehicle's oil tank.

Another motorist, emphasised that the Mumbai-Nashik highway, particularly the stretch between Thane and Kasara, becomes one of the worst highways for commuting during the monsoon due to the prevalence of potholes and uneven road surfaces. "Why is the government collecting toll if the road cannot be maintained," he questioned.

(with PTI inputs)