Pune: Woman Delivers Baby on Roadside Amid Traffic Jam; Locals Step In to Help

Undri, 7th July 2025: In a heart-wrenching yet inspiring incident from Wadachiwadi in Pune’s Undri area, a pregnant woman was forced to deliver her baby on the roadside after an ambulance was delayed due to a severe traffic jam. The quick intervention of local women ensured a safe delivery, drawing praise from all quarters.

The woman, originally from Uttar Pradesh, resides in a rented home with her husband. On Saturday morning, she began experiencing intense labour pains. Her husband immediately contacted an ambulance, but as they waited under a tree near their home, the vehicle got stuck in traffic — a common issue in the area.

Recognising the urgency, former sarpanch Poonam Bandal and Anita Bandal rushed to the spot. Using traditional methods and with utmost care, the two women assisted the woman in delivering her baby on the roadside.

“There was no time to wait. We had to act immediately for the mother and child’s safety,” said Poonam.

Thanks to their efforts, the woman gave birth to a healthy baby girl. The ambulance arrived approximately 20 minutes after the delivery, and the mother and newborn were then taken to the hospital for further care.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion about the poor state of traffic management in Wadachiwadi and the surrounding Undri area. Residents blame the frequent traffic jams on heavy dumpers transporting construction gravel, which clog the narrow roads.

“Such incidents are shocking, especially in a city like Pune that claims to have advanced infrastructure,” said a concerned local. “This delivery on the road is a warning bell for the administration.”

Locals also criticised the authorities for turning a blind eye to the movement of heavy vehicles through residential zones.

“The police and civic officials are ignoring our complaints about dumpers. This time it was a childbirth — next time, it could be a life-threatening medical emergency,” said another resident.

The event has ignited calls for urgent action to regulate traffic in the area, particularly during peak hours and near residential colonies.