Pune: Citizens Angered as Ganesh Pandals Still Block Pune Roads, Four Days After Festival
Pune, 12 September 2025: Ganeshotsav may have concluded on Sunday, but parts of Pune are still struggling with traffic congestion as several mandals have yet to dismantle their pandals. The delay has sparked frustration among residents, who say the festive tolerance for traffic snarls should not extend beyond the immersion processions.
Ironically, even a pandal near the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) headquarters remains standing, raising questions about enforcement. “If PMC overlooks violations at its doorstep, what hope is there for stricter action citywide?” asked one commuter stuck in traffic near Shivajinagar.
In many areas, while the main structures have been taken down, iron angles, bamboo poles, and wooden planks continue to litter roadsides, creating hazards for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Residents argue that once celebrations end, roads should be cleared without delay. “We accepted the inconvenience during the festival. But now, this is nothing short of negligence,” said a Karve Road shopkeeper.
PMC officials acknowledged the issue and assured prompt measures. “Instructions have been issued to mandals to clear pandals and remove leftover material. We held a meeting on Thursday, and action will begin Friday,” said Sandeep Khalate, Head of the Encroachment Department.
Khalate added that mandals that dismantled their structures but left debris behind have also been directed to clean up immediately.
