In a recent development, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a tender for the maintenance and other works related to water supply in newly included villages, including Undri, Pisoli, and Wadachi Wadi. However, this move has sparked concerns among residents as many of these villages currently lack PMC water connections, leading them to rely on private water suppliers.
Resident Concerns and Political Response:
Sachin Ghule, a senior NCP leader from Undri, expressed skepticism about the tender, noting the absence of several village names from the list. Residents of areas like Undri, Pisoli, and Wadachi Wadi have long awaited promises of regular potable water supply from the PMC, and this tender has prompted a renewed call for action.
Dilip Shah, President of Undri Residents Forum, questioned the rationale behind issuing a tender for areas without existing PMC water pipelines. Wadachi Wadi, in particular, lacks a PMC water pipeline, raising doubts about the scope and purpose of the maintenance work outlined in the tender.
Snehal Dagade, ex-Sarpanch of Pisoli, emphasized the need for basic infrastructure before initiating maintenance projects. Despite being merged with the PMC, Pisoli village still relies on water tankers, highlighting the urgency of addressing fundamental issues before undertaking maintenance initiatives.
Shyamala Desai, President of the National Societies for Clean Cities, encouraged residents to actively participate in the tender process. By monitoring the PMC’s water supply work through the application process, citizens can ensure accountability and transparency in addressing water supply and related concerns.
PMC’s Response and Future Plans:
Nandkishor Jagtap, Chief Engineer of the PMC Water Supply Department, clarified that the issued tenders pertain to routine maintenance of existing water supply connections. He assured that concerned individuals are overseeing maintenance issues, and for areas like Undri and Pisoli, ongoing work includes designing and estimating new water connections.
Residents experiencing water problems, such as low pressure or no water supply, are encouraged to report issues directly to the PMC or through the PMC Care app. The PMC aims to address and resolve these concerns promptly, ensuring the smooth functioning of existing water connections.
The PMC’s water maintenance tender has brought to light the disparities between promised infrastructure and the current reality in newly included villages. As residents voice their concerns, the PMC faces the challenge of aligning its initiatives with the urgent needs of these communities.
