The standing committee of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Thursday approved a budget of Rs 5.8 crore for urgent repair work on the Hadapsar-Gadital flyover. This decision comes even as the structure is likely to be demolished in the future to make way for a proposed Metro line and a double-decker bridge from Bhairoba nullah chowk to Yavat.
Repair Work Essential for Safety
Standing committee chairperson Shrinath Bhimale stated that the repair work was essential as a precautionary measure, given the heavy traffic the flyover handles daily. He said, "The plans for the double-decker bridge and the Metro are still at the planning stage. Hundreds of heavy and light vehicles use this flyover every day. To prevent further structural issues, immediate repairs are necessary."
Scope of Repairs
According to officials, the sanctioned funds will be used for repairing and replacing expansion joints and bearings, filling gaps, grouting, and carrying out other technical works. PMC had earlier undertaken repair work in 2021-22, spending around Rs 40 lakh on expansion joints at a few pillars. This time, similar work is proposed across the entire flyover, based on recommendations from an experts' committee.
Metro Line Plans and Flyover Demolition
A Metro line towards Loni Kalbhor has been proposed via Hadapsar, and discussions are currently under way regarding its alignment and the possible demolition of existing flyovers in the area. However, these plans have not yet been finalised.
Other Decisions: Computer Labs and Road Development
Sharing details of other decisions taken at the meeting, Bhimale said computer laboratories would be set up in 65 schools across 23 merged areas to promote e-learning. He also announced that a key road in every merged area would be developed with amenities such as footpaths, streetlights, and utility services. The road department has been directed to identify key roads in 34 merged areas within the next eight days.
Property Tax Rebate for Women Homeowners
The standing committee on Thursday approved a proposal to grant a 50% property tax rebate for properties up to 500 square feet registered in the names of women. The scheme, announced in the civic budget for 2026-27, is expected to reduce PMC's property tax revenue by around Rs 20 crore. Bhimale said the proposal would be placed before the general body and subsequently sent to the state government for final approval. Around 70,700 properties are eligible for the rebate, which currently generate about Rs 40.48 crore in property tax revenue.
