As the Lok Sabha elections approach, political candidates in Pune have pledged to address the longstanding issue of the Gultekdi market yard’s relocation. Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil and Sunetra Pawar from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), along with Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Murlidhar Mohol, contesting from Shirur, Baramati, and Pune respectively, have vowed to move the market yard to a more suitable location. This decision aims to alleviate existing challenges such as limited space, overcrowding, and traffic congestion, providing a more conducive environment for traders and farmers alike.
Addressing Farmer Concerns
- Joint Campaign: Amidst criticisms regarding the government’s alleged neglect of farmers’ issues, the three candidates from Pune district collectively visited the Gultekdi market yard to engage with traders and farmers. The market yard, home to the region’s largest agricultural produce marketing committee, plays a pivotal role in facilitating trade for farmers from Shirur and Baramati constituencies.
- Relocation Proposal: Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil proposed the idea of relocating the market yard, emphasizing the need for a 200-acre area in proximity to Pune’s proposed new airport in Purandar. Murlidhar Mohol echoed Patil’s sentiments, highlighting the benefits of relocating the market yard near the newly proposed ring road, thereby improving accessibility for rural farmers.
Rationale Behind Relocation
- Traffic Congestion: With around 2,000 vehicles, including heavy vehicles, unloading goods at the yard daily, traffic congestion has become a pressing concern. The proposed relocation seeks to mitigate traffic issues and accommodate the increased volume of trading.
- Strategic Planning: The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority and Pune Municipal Corporation are collaborating on a proposal to relocate the market yard. The candidates have pledged to advocate for this initiative with the state government, emphasizing the importance of strategic urban planning in addressing the city’s evolving needs.
Political Dynamics
- Emotional Response: Sunetra Pawar, wife of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, addressed concerns raised by NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar regarding her candidacy. She dismissed Pawar’s comments as his personal opinion, emphasizing her commitment to addressing the challenges faced by drought-affected farmers and citizens.
As election promises gain momentum, the pledge to relocate the Gultekdi market yard emerges as a focal point for candidates in Pune. By addressing longstanding issues and proposing strategic solutions, political contenders aim to garner support and address the pressing concerns of traders and farmers. As the election campaign progresses, the fate of the Gultekdi market yard and its relocation will remain a topic of significant interest, shaping the electoral landscape and influencing voter sentiment in Pune.
