Keshavnagar, August 5th, 2023: The inclusion of Keshavnagar into the Pune Municipal Corporation seven years ago was expected to usher in positive changes for the neighborhood. However, despite this integration, Keshavnagar continues to grapple with persistent basic issues, revealing shortcomings in the municipal administration’s efforts to address the concerns of its residents.
Over the past two years, the situation in Keshavnagar has taken a downturn due to administrative issues within the municipality, leading to a stagnation of progress even in minor tasks. Discontent among the residents is palpable, with many openly expressing their frustration. Interestingly, some residents have noted that the period when the area was under the jurisdiction of the Gram Panchayat seemed to be more effective in addressing local issues.
A notable example of this neglect can be observed in the state of the bridge over the stream at Keshavnagar. The bridge is currently submerged in a combination of garbage and rainwater, and the lack of a proper footpath forces pedestrians to navigate through stagnant water. This situation stands in stark contrast to the past, where local-level initiatives during the Gram Panchayat era would prompt immediate actions in addressing such concerns. Residents had the means to approach the sarpanch, deputy sarpanch, and members to find resolutions to these issues, a responsiveness that is lacking in the present scenario.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the lapse of the incumbent corporator’s term over a year and a half ago, which has led to a lack of direction in some quarters. Although some former corporators are actively pursuing follow-ups, a tangible solution still remains elusive.
In response to the current state of affairs, residents have taken matters into their own hands by directly engaging with officials from relevant departments within the municipality. They are demanding swift action, seeking a resolution to the pressing issues plaguing Keshavnagar. However, the responses from the municipal administration have so far been characterized by vague promises, leaving the community in a state of uncertainty regarding their future.
Certain pockets of Keshavnagar, including Kumbharwada, Buddha Vihar, Gurukripa Society, Orbis School Road, Shankarnagar, and Mahaganeshnagari Society, have been plagued by the pungent stench of uncollected garbage. This unchecked dumping of waste has led to an influx of disease-carrying mosquitoes, flies, and other insects, escalating concerns regarding public health. Given the potential for diseases like dengue and malaria to spread due to unsanitary conditions, the urgency for the municipal administration to address the waste management crisis in Keshavnagar cannot be overstated. The residents are hopeful that a simple yet essential solution, such as implementing a daily garbage collection system, can be promptly put into action to alleviate their predicament.
