NHAI Pune begins drive to curb rain-related risks on highways

NHAI Pune launched a cleanliness drive to tackle rain-related hazards from unmanaged waste on highways, issuing notices to establishments for compliance.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Pune on Sunday Pls check initiated a special cleanliness and maintenance drive across service roads and highway stretches to prevent rain-related hazards caused by accumulated waste.

As part of the initiative, NHAI has also started issuing formal notices to roadside establishments, including hotels, dhabas, eateries, and small commercial units found dumping waste along highway stretches. (FILE)

According to NHAI officials, unmanaged waste along highways has become a recurring safety concern, particularly during the monsoon when rainwater often spreads plastic, construction debris, and other solid waste onto carriageways. Such conditions not only reduce tyre grip and visibility but also contribute to sudden vehicle swerving and congestion.

An NHAI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “In several stretches around Pune, we have observed that waste dumped by nearby establishments gets washed onto the main carriageway during heavy rains, creating extremely hazardous conditions for motorists. We are issuing notices to all such establishments and have clearly instructed our field units to ensure strict compliance. If violations continue, we will not hesitate to impose penalties and initiate further action as permitted under the regulations.”