Pune’s Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park in Hinjewadi, a prominent IT hub, is currently plagued by chronic infrastructure issues affecting over 500,000 employees. Despite contributing significantly to Maharashtra’s economy, the area faces neglected roads, inadequate public transport, waste management shortfalls, and severe water shortages. These ongoing issues have not only inconvenienced residents and workers but also threaten to drive businesses away to other cities with better infrastructure, such as Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
The most pressing issues include severe traffic congestion and substandard road conditions, often resulting in lengthy delays for commuters. Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, recently underscored the urgent need for road expansions, flyover constructions, and improved solid waste management to create an industry-friendly environment. However, these solutions are yet to materialize despite repeated demands from the Hinjewadi Industrial Association (HIA) for sustainable and long-term improvements.
Residents and employees highlight additional concerns over inadequate public transport options and poor pedestrian infrastructure, which make daily commutes even more challenging. Although the metro project promises some relief, it lacks last-mile connectivity, leaving many dependent on personal vehicles amid worsening traffic conditions. Safety issues also persist, especially for women employees, due to a lack of adequate street lighting and limited CCTV coverage in key areas.
Political promises to address these challenges come as assembly elections approach. Sangram Thopte, the current Congress MLA, faces competition from NCP candidate Shankar Mandekar, both of whom have pledged to tackle these issues. As Hinjewadi awaits tangible improvements, many are skeptical but hopeful that political commitments will finally translate into meaningful action after years of neglect.
Hinjewadi’s IT contributions call for urgent infrastructure upgrades to sustain growth. State authorities emphasize creating competitive zones to attract investments.
