Residents Decry Lack of Basic Amenities Amidst PMC’s Delayed Assessment
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a water survey in the 34 villages merged into its jurisdiction since 2017 to evaluate water supply conditions during the scorching summer months. However, residents of these merged villages are expressing frustration over what they perceive as inadequate and belated action from the administration, leaving them grappling with fundamental necessities.
Commencing earlier this month, the survey aims to persist until the end of summer. PMC officials have pledged to engage with housing societies reporting poor water supply during the survey, intending to implement short-term measures such as increased water tanker supply based on the collected data.
However, residents remain skeptical, citing years of neglect and lack of tangible improvements in their living conditions. A resident of Wagholi emphasized the need for sustainable solutions rather than temporary fixes, expressing disappointment over the prolonged lack of progress despite being under PMC’s jurisdiction for three years.
Similar sentiments were echoed by residents of Undri, who highlighted the absence of essential infrastructure and amenities, despite substantial property tax payments. Vishal Harpale from Uruli-Phursungi questioned the purpose of PMC’s jurisdiction if it fails to meet the basic demand for tap water, reflecting widespread disillusionment among taxpayers.
While PMC officials assure both short- and long-term measures to enhance water supply, environmental experts emphasize the importance of prioritizing natural water conservation methods. Sachin Punekar, an environmental biologist, advocated for the creation of “water self-sustained societies” to mitigate dependence on external water sources.
Nandkishor Jagtap, head of PMC’s water supply department, offered reassurance that residents receiving tanker supply due to scarcity would not incur charges. However, the mounting demand for water, coupled with delayed planning, presents a daunting challenge for the administration in the years ahead.
