Hey Pune folks, here’s a little update on what’s been happening in our city recently. It seems like there’s been a bit of controversy surrounding the allocation of funds in the 2024-25 budget for infrastructure projects in PMC’s newly included villages.
So, here’s the scoop – a whopping Rs 38.50 crore that was originally meant for water supply and road improvement projects in underdeveloped villages has been diverted to more affluent areas like Baner, Balewadi, and Sus. This has left some residents in the less developed regions feeling a bit neglected, as their urgent needs for better water supply and roads are being pushed aside.
The budget had initially set aside Rs 10 crore for a water supply master plan in the 32 new villages, and Rs 18.50 crore for road asphalting. While some villages like Sus, Mhalunge, Lohgaon, and Wagholi have already seen improvements in water supply, others like Khadakwasla, Dhayari, Narhe, and more are still waiting for their turn.
But instead of focusing on these areas, the funds have been redirected to Baner, Balewadi, and Sus at the behest of local leaders who wanted special treatment for their regions. Projects like sewage channel replacement, road asphalting, and pothole filling are now getting the green light in these already well-developed areas.
Unsurprisingly, residents in the underdeveloped villages are feeling frustrated. One resident from Mangdewadi expressed their concerns, saying that while Baner and Balewadi are doing just fine, they are still struggling with basic necessities like drinking water and proper roads.
In response to the backlash, Pune Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale clarified that the funds were reallocated based on urgent requests from representatives of the affluent areas. He promised that the spending of the funds would be closely monitored to ensure they are used appropriately and that the projects are completed as planned.
So, it looks like there’s a bit of tension brewing in Pune over where the money is going. Let’s hope that all residents, regardless of their location, get the infrastructure improvements they deserve. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!
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