Pune: PMC to Provide Additional Funds for Infrastructure in Newly Merged Villages
Pune, December 30, 2024: In a significant move, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced additional funding to expedite infrastructure development in 34 villages recently merged into the city limits. The funds will focus on urgent road, water, and drainage projects, streamlining minor repair works through regional and ward offices.
During a recent finance committee meeting, PMC approved a budget of around ₹400 crore for these villages, assigning responsibility for each area to nearby ward offices. However, due to regional offices being restricted to handling projects up to ₹10 lakh, the funds have primarily catered to older city areas, causing delays in addressing complaints from the merged villages.
PMC officials revealed plans for separate meetings in early January to allocate funds directly at the ward office level. These funds aim to address immediate needs such as road repairs, drainage maintenance, and streetlight issues, particularly during the monsoon season.
The PMC’s current budget prioritizes large-scale projects in the merged villages, including roads, footpaths, streetlights, and drainage systems, costing between ₹250 crore and ₹300 crore. These projects involve extensive planning and consultant appointments, delaying the resolution of minor issues faced by residents.
The official stated, “To streamline infrastructure development, substantial funds will also be allocated to ward offices in next year’s budget. The ward offices near village boundaries have been tasked with executing necessary and urgent works. We will hold dedicated meetings from next week to ensure quick implementation through Deputy Commissioners.”
By allocating funds directly to regional and ward offices, the PMC aims to resolve residents’ concerns more effectively, balancing immediate repair needs with long-term development plans.
