NASHIK: The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has launched a comprehensive survey of deteriorating colony roads across the city. Preliminary estimates indicate that nearly 1,500 km of stretches require urgent resurfacing, with projected costs exceeding Rs 1,500 crore.
Survey Initiated by Municipal Commissioner
Municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri has directed the public works department (PWD) to conduct a division-wise assessment and submit a detailed report. The administration is preparing a large-scale proposal to seek state funding for the repairs.
Mounting Complaints Over Road Conditions
The move follows increasing complaints about worsening road conditions in residential areas. Many of these roads have not been asphalted for over a decade due to acute fund constraints.
NMC officials stated that proposals will be prepared for all six civic divisions: Panchavati, Cidco, Nashik East, Nashik West, Nashik Road, and Satpur. These will be based on survey findings and forwarded to the state government for financial assistance.
Extent of Road Damage
Of the city's 2,400 km road network, around 1,700 km are tar roads primarily in residential colonies. Nearly 1,500 km of these are in poor condition and need immediate relaying. Panchavati accounts for 466 km of tar roads, followed by 396 km in Cidco, with other divisions also reporting widespread damage.
Corporators Raise Concerns
The issue has been repeatedly flagged by corporators, who note that nearly 90% of colony roads have not been relaid in the past 10-12 years. This causes significant inconvenience to residents and increases maintenance challenges.
Political Attention
The matter was raised during Kumbh Mela review meetings. Mayor Himgauri Aher and civic chief Khatri urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to allocate funds for improving internal road infrastructure. The chief minister responded by asking the civic body to submit a detailed proposal with cost estimates.
Mayor's Urgency
During a recent general body meeting, the mayor reiterated the urgency to expedite the proposal. A senior NMC official said, "We have begun the process of surveying all colony roads across the six divisions. Based on the survey findings, we will prepare division-wise proposals and submit them to the commissioner. A majority of these roads have not been relaid for over a decade due to lack of funds. The exact length requiring attention will be clear once the survey is completed."
