Pune authorities have launched an investigation into a borewell drilling activity that reportedly compromised the structural integrity of the Pune Metro tunnel located near Shivaji Road. The event unfolded on March 14, when drilling occurred at a private property situated above the operational metro line connecting Shivajinagar and Swargate Metro Stations. Concerns were raised after the drilling allegedly led to damage, creating a breach approximately six inches in diameter within the tunnel.

Details of the Breach

Officials indicated that the metro tunnel is buried between 80 to 100 feet below the ground surface. The location of the breach was identified close to the Mandai Metro Station, prompting immediate safety assessments by concerned entities. In response, Shantanu Goratra, a representative from MahaMetro, lodged a formal complaint with local police, leading to the filing of charges against the borewell contractor and the property owner.

Legal Implications

The individuals facing charges have been booked under Sections 125 and 324 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which pertain to negligent acts that may endanger lives and mischief, respectively. Senior Inspector Shashikant Chavan confirmed that necessary steps are being implemented to mitigate further risks to the metro tunnel and surrounding areas.

Allegations of Negligence

Preliminary investigations suggest that both the contractor and the homeowner had prior knowledge of the metro infrastructure beneath their property but proceeded with drilling activities, resulting in damage to the tunnel’s ceiling. In a response, the homeowner rejected claims of negligence, asserting that the existing structure was compromised and demolished due to its condition. He clarified that the drilling involved clearing an existing pipe and reported encountering water at a shallow depth of about 24 feet, with no deep drilling being undertaken.

Response from Authorities

A spokesperson for MahaMetro announced that efforts are underway to engage with groundwater authorities and local civic agencies to avert similar incidents in the future. Plans are also in motion to delineate sensitive areas along the metro tunnel routes, in addition to issuing advisories to local residents about potential risks associated with drilling activities in proximity to the metro infrastructure.

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