Pune, Maharashtra – A harrowing incident occurred near Nigdi Chowk on Saturday afternoon when strong winds dislodged a steel sheet from an under-construction Pune Metro site, sending it tumbling onto the busy Old Mumbai-Pune Highway and narrowly missing a passing biker.
The incident, which took place around 3 pm, has raised significant questions about the safety measures in place at the ongoing metro construction projects across the city. Temporary steel-sheet structures had been erected at the pillar construction site to provide shade for workers. However, sudden gusty winds proved too strong for the temporary installation, causing the metal sheets to come loose and fall onto the highway below.
Eyewitnesses reported that the sheet landed just inches in front of a two-wheeler rider, who managed to stop his vehicle in time, averting a potentially fatal accident. The close call has sparked concern among commuters and local residents who use the heavily trafficked stretch daily, noting that a direct hit could have had severe consequences, particularly for motorcyclists and cyclists.
In response to the incident, officials from Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated. Chandrashekhar Tambekar, spokesperson for Pune Metro, stated that metro security officials and their teams are investigating the matter. The incident has been taken seriously at the highest levels of the metro administration, and authorities have assured that strict and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible following the inquiry.
Furthermore, a comprehensive safety audit is being conducted along all under-construction metro routes in Pune. This audit aims to ensure that temporary structures are robust enough to withstand adverse weather conditions and that stringent safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are being followed by all contractors and stakeholders involved in the metro work.
This is not the first safety-related incident linked to Pune Metro construction. In August 2023, a moving car near Yerwada Chowk sustained significant damage when an iron structure from an under-construction metro corridor fell onto its bonnet. That incident occurred shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had inaugurated extended metro routes in the city, highlighting recurring concerns over construction site safety.
Commuters have expressed their unease, emphasizing the necessity for rigorous safety protocols, especially given the busy nature of the Old Mumbai-Pune Highway, which sees thousands of vehicles daily. They have urged authorities to review and reinforce the safety arrangements at all metro construction sites to prevent future occurrences and ensure the safety of the public.
Authorities have reiterated that obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the metro authority is mandatory for any construction or development activity within a 20-metre radius of elevated and underground metro lines to prevent structural risks and ensure public safety. This directive applies to all property owners, developers, housing societies, and organizations undertaking work near metro corridors.
The Chenab Times News Desk