Pune: Wagholi Residents Stage Protest Over 15-Year Neglect of Bakori Road

Wagholi, 25th August 2025: Residents of Bakori Road in Wagholi staged a protest on Sunday, expressing anger over what they describe as 15 years of official neglect of one of the area’s most crucial roads. Despite the rapid growth of housing projects in the locality, the road remains just nine feet wide and riddled with potholes, making daily travel unsafe for thousands of commuters.

With more than 1,000 flats and nearly 3,000 people residing along the stretch, residents said they feel cheated. According to them, builders have collectively sold flats worth over ₹600 crore, while homebuyers have contributed over ₹50 crore in stamp duty. Yet, basic road infrastructure has not been upgraded.

“For us, travelling on this road every day is nothing short of a gamble. Children and senior citizens are the most vulnerable. How long can we keep risking our lives on a road that should have been widened and repaired years ago?” said a resident of a housing society on Bakori Road.

Another protester added, “We have been patient for 15 years. Our money has gone into the development of this area, but the most basic need — a proper road — has been ignored. This is the time for action, not more promises.”

The agitation was spearheaded by Team WACO (Wagholi Against Corruption), led by social activist Anil Kumar Mishra. Holding banners and chanting slogans, residents demanded that the authorities immediately start work on widening and repairing the road.

“Bakori Road has become a symbol of neglect. Our united voice is our strength, and we will continue to fight until the administration ensures a safe, motorable road for all,” Mishra said during the protest.

Residents warned that if their demand is not addressed soon, they will intensify their agitation and take it to higher levels of government.