The sudden transfer of Vikas Dhakane, Additional Commissioner of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), has left residents of Pune in disbelief. Dhakane, known for his impactful and efficient works in road and infrastructure development, has garnered widespread appreciation for his contributions to the city’s progress.
In an interview with Pune Pulse, Vikas Dhakane confirmed his transfer, stating that details of his new posting would be announced shortly. However, the news of his departure has sparked disappointment and concern among citizens from various spheres of life.
Qaneez Sukhrani, a prominent citizen activist, expressed her dismay over Dhakane’s transfer, calling for his reinstatement. She highlighted Dhakane’s instrumental role in initiating development projects and his accessibility to address citizens’ concerns, emphasizing his positive and balanced approach in decision-making.
Moreover, Sukhrani cited the Maharashtra Government Servant Regulation of Transfers & Prevention of Delay in Discharge of Official Duties Act, asserting that Dhakane’s transfer violates the stipulated tenure of three years unless proven guilty of misconduct. She urged authorities to reconsider the decision and retain Dhakane in his current position until the conclusion of the Lok Sabha elections.
Raju Hinge, a seasoned journalist covering PMC affairs, lamented Dhakane’s transfer, acknowledging his significant efforts in improving infrastructure, including resolving land acquisition issues and clearing encroachments. Hinge emphasized Dhakane’s effectiveness in decision-making and expressed concern over the impact of his departure on the city’s development trajectory.
Echoing similar sentiments, Ali Daruwala, spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party, voiced apprehensions about the potential slowdown in Pune’s infrastructure growth following Dhakane’s transfer.
As Pune grapples with the unexpected relocation of a key administrative figure, residents anxiously await clarity on Dhakane’s successor and express hopes for continued progress and development under PMC’s leadership.
