Pune: Water Purification Project for GBS-Affected Villages Faces Funding Hurdle

Pune, 15th March 2025: A crucial water purification project aimed at providing clean water to GBS-affected villages in Pune is facing uncertainty due to a lack of funding. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed a Rs 890 crore project to set up two 100 MLD water treatment plants and associated infrastructure to serve 12 villages, including Dhayari, Kirkatwadi, and Nandoshi. However, despite submitting a request to the Maharashtra State Government on 11th February, there has been no response regarding the allocation of funds.

The project, initiated under Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar’s guidance, involves constructing water treatment centers near Khadakwasla Dam, building storage tanks, laying new pipelines, and installing meters. The PMC has not included any provision for this project in its budget, relying on state funding. With no confirmation from the government, the project’s future remains uncertain, potentially delaying relief for areas struggling with contaminated water and GBS outbreaks.

The PMC plans to implement the project in two phases, with the first phase costing Rs 606 crore and the second phase costing Rs 284 crore. The project requires 11 acres of land and involves building five pumping houses and 43 tanks. The lack of funding could exacerbate water supply issues in newly merged areas, where residents currently rely on wells or water tankers due to inadequate municipal water distribution systems.