Maha CM Responds To Expressway Deterioration Claims, Cites Only Two Potholes During Monsoon

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has defended the quality of the newly built Pune–Mumbai Expressway Connecting Link amid criticism over alleged deterioration during the ongoing monsoon season, asserting that only “two potholes” have been found on the stretch. His remarks came as questions were raised on social media about the condition of the road following heavy rainfall across the region.

Addressing reporters, Fadnavis rejected claims that the highway link had developed widespread damage and said such descriptions were misleading. “There are only two potholes,” he stated, adding that it was incorrect to suggest that the road had deteriorated significantly. He further remarked that some criticism circulating online was exaggerated and did not take into account the technical aspects and ongoing processes involved in large-scale infrastructure construction.

The Chief Minister also issued a public advisory urging residents in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and the Pune–Nashik belt to avoid unnecessary travel as heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is expected to continue until July 6. His appeal came in response to adverse weather conditions affecting road safety and traffic movement across several parts of Maharashtra during the monsoon season.

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According to the India Meteorological Department’s Regional Meteorological Centre, the region is likely to experience very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and precipitation significantly above normal levels over the next few days. The forecast has prompted authorities to remain on alert, with civic agencies and disaster management teams monitoring vulnerable areas prone to waterlogging and disruption.

The Pune–Mumbai Expressway Connecting Link, a key infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel time between the two major cities, has been under public scrutiny following reports of minor surface damage during the rains. Critics have pointed to visible issues on certain sections, while government officials have maintained that such concerns are limited and do not reflect the overall quality or durability of the project.

Despite the controversy, officials have reiterated that infrastructure projects of this scale undergo continuous monitoring and maintenance, particularly during the monsoon period. The state government has maintained that corrective measures are taken promptly whenever issues are identified, while also emphasising the importance of allowing construction and finishing processes to stabilise fully before drawing conclusions about long-term performance.

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