Pashan-Sus road widening work in Pune has exposed the roots of 8 to 10 mature peepal trees and left a drinking-water pipeline suspended without proper support. The situation has raised concerns over tree safety, potential disruption to water supplies and accident risks, while residents have sought immediate protective measures from the Pune Municipal Corporation.

The affected stretch forms part of a 400-metre grade separator project intended to provide a more direct route from Pashan towards the Bengaluru Highway. Work has progressed slowly over the past four months, according to the report. Roadside excavation has damaged sections of the protective structures around the trees and exposed their roots, leaving them vulnerable to being uprooted.

Residents said the contractor had previously been informed about the danger to the trees but had not taken adequate corrective measures. The exposed roots and damaged tree guards are now a concern along a route used regularly by local residents and pedestrians. They have also raised concerns about the unsecured excavation and the possibility of an accident if the trees fall or the work area remains inadequately protected.

Excavation has additionally exposed joints in the drinking-water pipeline serving the area. The line is hanging without adequate support, creating a risk of damage that could interrupt supplies to nearby users. Residents have sought stabilisation of the pipeline and proper securing of the excavation while construction continues.

Environmentalist Sampat Naik said he used the Pashan-Sus road daily and had earlier informed the contractor about the trees. He urged the municipal administration to take immediate steps to protect and conserve them. Pune Municipal Corporation tree inspector Anil Sable said he had recently received information about the threat to the peepal trees and would inspect the site to assess the situation. He said appropriate action would be taken urgently.

Pramod Mahale, deputy engineer in the civic roads department, said the widening work was planned for completion by December. He said the site would be inspected to assess tree safety and that the contractor would receive strict instructions on precautions. The inspection and resulting directions are expected to determine how the trees, pipeline and excavation are secured as the grade separator work proceeds.