A dedicated group of concerned citizens in Pune has come together to launch the “Chalo PMC Pune Samvad” initiative, aimed at empowering residents to voice their concerns and demands regarding civic and environmental issues in Pune and its surrounding areas.
The initiative, led by individuals like Gangogtri Chanda, seeks to engage citizens in the democratic process by allowing them to scrutinize and evaluate the tasks entrusted to those in power. Despite Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) substantial annual budget of Rs. 10,000 crores, the city continues to face pressing issues such as water scarcity, inefficient public transportation, flooding, waste disposal, drainage and sewage problems, pollution, power outages, deteriorating infrastructure, and more.
Manoj Dhundhankar highlighted the burden of property tax levied by PMC on every apartment within housing societies. Residents often feel that the basic amenities provided by PMC do not match the significant property tax they pay.
Economist Ameet Singh emphasized the importance of seeking citizens’ feedback on civic issues, which will be represented to the authorities and made visible to PMC and the public through a dashboard. The collected information will be presented to PMC as letters on behalf of the citizens.
The initiative aims to address various civic problems, including inadequate water supply, neglected road infrastructure, illegal roadside encroachments, dry garbage collection issues, malfunctioning street lights, traffic congestion, public transport, and drainage problems.
Over 300 grievances have already been collected from different parts of Pune, with road conditions, waste management, and traffic issues being the most prevalent concerns. These concerns will be formally submitted to PMC on behalf of the city’s residents.
To contribute their concerns, citizens can fill out a form provided by the initiative, allowing them to participate in making Pune a more livable and sustainable city.
