Why Pune’s JM Road Hasn’t Seen a Pothole in 50 Years?
Reported by Gayatri Kelkar
Pune, 22nd August 2025: In a city where potholes often become the most talked-about issue every monsoon, one road in Pune has stood the test of time as a symbol of engineering foresight and civic vision. The iconic Jangli Maharaj (JM) Road, running through the heart of the city, has not had a single pothole in the last 50 years — a record that continues to surprise Punekars and experts alike.
Born Out of Monsoon Anger
The story of JM Road’s durability dates back to the heavy rains of 1973. That year, relentless downpours submerged Pune’s roads for several hours, leaving them uprooted, broken, and riddled with potholes. Public anger rose sharply, and the city administration found itself under fire.
Amidst the chaos, a young corporator, Shrikant Shirole, questioned why Pune’s roads were falling apart while Mumbai’s roads withstood the same rains. At just 24, as Chairman of the Standing Committee, Shirole refused to accept excuses and sought a permanent solution.
The Recondo Breakthrough
Determined to act, Shirole collaborated with Recondo Company, led by two Parsi brothers known for their pioneering hot mix road technology. With a budget of ₹15 lakh sanctioned for JM Road, Recondo promised to deliver a road so strong that it would remain pothole-free for at least a decade.
The work was completed on January 1, 1976. Few could have imagined then that the promise of 10 years would stretch into a golden record of half a century.
Fifty Years Without a Scar
Since its inauguration, JM Road has remained remarkably intact. Other than minor roadside repairs in 2013, the main stretch has shown no signs of damage, no matter how heavy the rains.
The achievement was not only a technological marvel but also a lesson in planning and execution. Ironically, Recondo’s success was short-lived. Internal disputes between its directors forced the company to withdraw from further projects, robbing Pune of more such long-lasting roads.
The bureaucrats also hesitated to give them more contracts without the ‘necessary cuts’.
A Legacy of Young Leadership
For many Punekars, JM Road stands as a reminder of Shrikant Shirole’s leadership. “At just 24, Shiroleji showed us that leadership is about finding solutions, not excuses,” recalls a senior civic official. “JM Road is not just a stretch of tar and stone — it’s his legacy.”
Lessons for the Present
In a time when pothole complaints dominate civic discussions every monsoon, the story of JM Road feels both inspiring and frustrating. If a road could remain strong for 50 years using technology from the 1970s, why can’t modern contractors deliver the same quality today?
Experts believe the answer lies not only in technology but also in political will and accountability. JM Road’s history proves that with foresight, investment, and the right partnerships, cities can build infrastructure that lasts.
A Symbol of Pride
For Punekars, JM Road is more than just a road. It is a living piece of history — a story of vision, innovation, and commitment. As the city races toward becoming a modern metro, JM Road continues to remind everyone that durability and quality are possible when leadership and technology come together.
One road. One history. Fifty years. Zero potholes. JM Road remains Pune’s pride.
