In a recent review meeting held on March 6, 2024, residents of Wakad gathered at the PCMC commissioner’s office to address persistent concerns regarding the widening of Datta Mandir Road. The meeting, a follow-up to the discussions on January 17, saw the participation of residents from approximately 17-19 housing societies, expressing their dissatisfaction and seeking immediate action.
According to the Wakad Datta Mandir Road Cooperative Housing Societies Group, several pressing issues were raised during the meeting:
- Inaction Post Previous Meeting: Residents expressed frustration as they noted negligible progress or actions taken by the PCMC following the previous meeting on January 17. The lack of substantial moves prompted this review meeting to seek clarification from the Commissioner.
- Legal Status of Disputed Land: Questions were raised about the possession of disputed land on Datta Mandir Road. The Commissioner informed the residents that the legal process had not yet been initiated, despite significant encroachment on PCMC-owned land. This revelation drew strong displeasure from the residents.
- Footpath Width and Conflicting Responses: Residents demanded a narrowing of the proposed footpaths under construction. The Commissioner’s response caused confusion among the attendees, particularly when he remarked about the perspective from air-conditioned vehicles versus that of ordinary citizens. Residents urged action against encroachments on the footpaths.
- Submission of Statements: Following the meeting, residents submitted 23 statements to the Commissioner’s office regarding their housing organization. Copies of these correspondences were sent to the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s Office, Deputy Chief Minister’s Offices, and the Ministry of Urban Development and Civil Affairs for necessary action.
The dissatisfaction among Wakad residents has grown, and concerns about the 45-meter widening of Datta Mandir Road have escalated. Some residents expressed apprehension about participating in future elections, contemplating the use of the Nota button or boycotting the voting process altogether.
As the residents grapple with unaddressed issues, the meeting organizers and attendees highlight their displeasure, emphasizing the need for transparent communication and decisive actions to ensure the successful completion of the Datta Mandir Road project.
