Pune: In response to the escalating water crisis in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Pune Divisional Commissioner Saurabh Rao convened a crucial meeting, bringing together representatives from housing societies, Housing Federations, Akhil Bharatiya Grahak Panchayat, and Maharashtra Housing Societies Federation. The gathering focused on devising pivotal measures to address the pressing issue.
A significant announcement was made during the meeting by the Divisional Commissioner, stating that no new permissions for construction would be granted in the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) jurisdiction without a comprehensive assessment of the local body’s, PMRDA’s, and Zilla Parishad’s ability to provide water to new constructions. The Commissioner emphasized that permissions should not solely rely on affidavits from builders.
The meeting also addressed the ongoing demand for water supply through tankers by PMC and PCMC. The Divisional Commissioner indicated that the matter is currently under evaluation, with spot visits mandated to both corporations to understand ground-level realities and formulate suitable solutions.
To enhance communication and address complaints more efficiently, both corporations will establish a dedicated email ID for housing complexes to register grievances related to water scarcity. Additionally, a new procedure was decided upon, where complaints will be received in advance, and solutions will be presented during the subsequent monthly gathering.
Advocate Satya Muley, representing residents in the Bombay High Court, emphasized the district-wide nature of the water crisis, stressing the importance of intensive efforts from the special committee. While acknowledging the need for immediate solutions, Muley highlighted deficiencies in the strategic planning of both corporations, emphasizing the necessity for long-term planning.
Several representatives at the meeting expressed frustration over the perceived inaction by both corporations in effectively addressing the ongoing crisis. The meeting concluded with a commitment to collaborative efforts and a renewed focus on strategic, sustainable solutions to tackle the water scarcity issue in PMC and PCMC.
