Pune: Residents Hold Candle March in Undri–Mohammadwadi Over Water Crisis, Road Safety
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Mohammadwadi, 11th April 2026: In a powerful display of unity and grief, hundreds of residents from Undri, Mohammadwadi and Pisoli gathered at Raheja Circle, Tribeca High Street on Saturday evening for a candle march and silent protest. The demonstration was held in memory of Aariz Shaikh and Gracia Dora, while also raising urgent concerns over road safety, traffic mismanagement and the persistent water crisis in the area.
Organised by the Mohammadwadi-Undri Residents Welfare Development Foundation, the protest saw participation from families, senior citizens and youth, all holding candles and walking in silence. The emotional atmosphere reflected both mourning and growing frustration among citizens over repeated incidents and long-pending civic issues.
A member of the organising foundation said, “We are here for the victims who have faced these problems. This is truly a big loss, and the system should take proper action against those responsible.”
Residents highlighted the increasing dangers posed by heavy water tanker movement, often blamed for accidents and deteriorating road conditions. The protest also brought attention to the alleged tanker mafia and the lack of a reliable water supply system, which has forced locals to depend on expensive private tankers for years.
Local corporator Prachi Alhat addressed the gathering and assured residents of action. “The work will be done as soon as possible. The PMC and concerned authorities have given a deadline of May 15,” she said.
However, anger among citizens was evident. Senior journalist Raj Singh expressed strong concern over recurring negligence. “If this happens again, I will directly burn the tanker. I will not see anything,” he said.
Ward 41 corporator Atul Tarawade also responded to the demands, stating that the necessary funds have been allocated. “We have secured a maximum budget from PMC for road development. I will ensure the work is completed within two to three months, and the water pipeline work will begin as soon as possible,” he said.
BJP member and social worker Jaymala Dhankikar, who was among the organisers of the protest, said, “I am coordinating with all corporators on this issue. If needed, I will approach the PMC Commissioner and pursue this matter up to the Chief Minister to ensure a permanent solution.”
Residents also shared their long-standing struggles. Ileana D’Souza, a local resident, spoke about the decade-long water crisis. “We have been facing the tanker mafia problem for nearly 10 years. Since the time Royal Heritage Mall was developed, water tanks were built, but no proper water supply has been provided. It is very disappointing. We only want a regular water supply, and paying heavily for tanker water is not right,” she said.
Several officials, including senior police personnel, were present at the protest. Authorities acknowledged the issue of traffic congestion and assured intervention. “We will coordinate with the traffic police and ensure proper traffic management in the Mohammadwadi–Undri–Pisoli area,” a senior officer said.
The protest concluded peacefully, but the message from residents was clear and urgent: immediate action is needed to ensure safer roads, improved infrastructure and access to basic necessities such as water. The demonstration stood as a strong reminder that the community will continue to raise its voice until meaningful change is achieved.
