Ulhasnagar drowns in potholes

Commissioner Manisha Awhale’s showy administration exposed again

Ulhasnagar: Despite bagging the first rank in the Maharashtra government’s 100 Days Action Plan initiative, Ulhasnagar city is currently grappling with flooded roads, massive potholes, and widespread public frustration during the ongoing monsoon season. Citizens have alleged that the much-celebrated action plan remains only on paper, as ground reality paints a starkly different picture.

Ulhasnagar Municipal Commissioner Manisha Awhale was recently honored by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde for exemplary performance under the 100-day action plan. However, locals question the credibility of the recognition, pointing to the deteriorated condition of city roads and the daily struggles faced by commuters.

Throughout the city, potholes have emerged on major roads, school routes, hospital access lanes, marketplaces, and residential colonies. These potholes, often submerged under rainwater, have made travel treacherous for both pedestrians and vehicle users. Daily reports of accidents, children risking injury en route to school, and rising cases of waterborne diseases have raised serious concerns about public safety and health.

While Speaking to, The Perfect Voice, local resident Sagar Shinde said, “Commissioner Manisha Awhale received the award for being the best commissioner under the 100-Day Action Plan, but the current condition of our city’s roads makes this award feel like salt rubbed into the wounds of the people. Every year when the monsoon arrives, roads disappear under water and turn into a sea of potholes. Despite this recurring problem, no effective solution is ever implemented. Our daily lives have been endangered due to these potholes accidents are frequent, and we fear for our children’s safety going to school. While the commissioner may be celebrated, for us citizens, this feels like a mockery of our suffering. Ulhasnagar needs a responsive administration that delivers real results, not just paper awards.”

In light of these realities, the prestigious first rank awarded to Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation seems ironically contradictory. Residents demand that the administration translate accolades into actual action, ensuring Ulhasnagar lives up to its title not just in documents, but in the daily lives of its people.