“Where Did 200 Crore Go?” Shiv Sena (UBT) Stages Protest Against Government Over Ambil Odha Wall Delay

Dattawadi, 15th July 2025: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) staged a strong protest in Pune today, demanding accountability from the government over the alleged delay and mismanagement in the construction of the Ambil Odha retaining wall. This crucial flood-control measure had promised ₹200 crore funding back in 2019.

The protest was held at Bal Shivaji Chowk near Mhatre Bridge, Dattawadi, where party workers raised slogans against the state and central government, accusing them of misleading Pune citizens during the 2019 Lok Sabha elections by displaying large banners claiming allocation of ₹200 crore for flood control measures along Ambil Odha.

Two months into the monsoon, the retaining walls for Ambil Odha and other local streams remain unbuilt, leaving thousands of citizens at risk of recurring flooding. Protestors highlighted that the 2019 floods had caused significant damage in Pune due to the absence of these protective structures.

Shiv Sena Pune city president Sanjay More criticized the inaction, stating, “The water issue in Ambil Odha continues to affect residents, with water still entering homes in low-lying areas. Despite this being a cross-constituency issue involving three MLAs, none have shown concern. Before the 2019 elections, Pune’s MP publicly claimed that the Chief Minister had approved ₹200 crore for constructing the retaining wall. Over two years have passed — where did this ₹200 crore go? What happened to those promises?”

The protest also targeted Pune’s sitting Member of Parliament, demanding that he take responsibility for public safety and deliver on pre-election commitments. Protesters alleged that the banner campaigns ahead of the 2019 elections were a tactic to mislead voters, with no visible ground progress made to date.

The party has warned that unless swift action is taken to construct the promised retaining wall, further public agitation will follow.