Even as the city continues to witness large-scale infrastructure development, concerns over the durability and quality of civic works have once again come to the fore with roads at Bajaj Nagar and Kachipura squares developing potholes and surface damage within a year of construction. The two busy intersections, which recently underwent beautification and redesigning works by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), are now drawing criticism from commuters who allege that the projects have created more inconvenience than relief.

 

The beautification work at Bajaj Nagar Square began in March 2025 with the stated objective of improving traffic movement and enhancing the appearance of the junction. Similar work was also carried out at nearby Kachipura Square. However, commuters now complain of uneven road surfaces, loose paver blocks, traffic congestion and increasing safety risks. While the projects cost runs in crores, the potholes on the roads within a matter of months raises the question of the quality of work and extent of supervision by the authorities. At Kachipura Square, the central portion of the junction was elevated and fitted with paver blocks instead of conventional asphalt surfacing. Within months of completion, several paver blocks reportedly loosened and sank, resulting in potholes and bumpy stretches in the middle of the square.

 

“The road has become dangerous, especially for two-wheelers. The tyres slip on the blocks and the potholes make the ride extremely unstable,” said Akshay Meshram, a daily commuter from Dharampeth. Motorists said the problem becomes worse during peak hours when vehicles rush to cross the signal before the timer turns red. With green signals reportedly lasting for barely 25 seconds, commuters often accelerate through the square, increasing the possibility of skidding and accidents. “Every day, there is chaos at the square.

 

Vehicles slow down suddenly or wave unpredictably to avoid the potholes which creates a dangerous situation for following commuters,” said Sneha Wankhede, who travels through Bajaj Nagar Square for work. In the past, the citizens had also expressed concern, as both squares are known to witness waterlogging during heavy rains. Commuters fear that the potholes and loose paver blocks could worsen further once rainwater accumulates at the intersections. The rapid deterioration of the roads has prompted many residents to question the quality of construction and demand immediate repairs before the situation leads to serious accidents.