Nagpur: A wave of panic swept across commuters on the Samruddhi Mahamarg late Tuesday night after several vehicles suffered sudden tyre punctures on a bridge stretch. Many motorists initially suspected the sharp nails hammered into the road were planted by miscreants as part of a robbery attempt. However, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) later clarified that the nails were part of a sanctioned road repair activity.
A video from the spot, now viral on social media, shows rows of nails embedded across a lane, forcing traffic to crawl through the adjoining stretch. The visuals triggered widespread concern, with road users questioning the safety measures adopted by the authorities.
MSRDC officials explained that the nails were used during a grouting process, where construction material passes through them. They further stated that two lanes were kept open for traffic, while the repair lane had been barricaded. The confusion reportedly arose when one vehicle broke through the barricades and entered the work zone, causing a puncture. Following this, a few more vehicles also met with the same fate.
Dismissing robbery rumours, MSRDC urged commuters not to spread misinformation and assured that no criminal activity was involved. Messages clarifying the situation were circulated in commuter groups to put an end to speculation.
Despite the clarification, several motorists expressed strong displeasure, arguing that the work should have been carried out with clearer warnings and preferably during the day. They pointed out that sudden tyre punctures at high speed on the expressway could easily result in major accidents or fatalities. Road users have now demanded stricter safety protocols and better communication from the authorities during repair and maintenance operations.
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