Pune: Baner–Balewadi Citizens Hold ‘Jan Samvad’ Direct Dialogue with Corporators Over Civic Problems

Balewadi, 4th May 2026: On 2nd May, the Balewadi Welfare Federation launched a unique initiative to bridge the gap between citizens and Prabhag 9 all four elected representatives through a direct dialogue program titled “Jan Samvad.” Unlike traditional formats where grievances are submitted in writing, this program enabled residents to voice their concerns face-to-face and receive immediate responses from corporators. The initiative was widely appreciated by both citizens and representatives.

Over 125 residents from Baner–Balewadi gathered at Elite Empire Society to raise pressing civic issues including incomplete roads, broken footpaths, safety concerns, drainage problems, garbage management at Sai Chowk, traffic congestion near Radha Chowk, SKP Camp and Ravindranath School, need for a signal at Mamta Chowk, traffic regulation at Jupiter Chowk, weekly markets encroaching footpaths, frequent power cuts, and nuisance caused by liquor shops in Balewadi.

Corporators Rohini Chimte (Chairperson, Aundh Ward Committee), Mayuri Kokate (Standing Committee Member), senior corporator Baburao Chandere, and Amol Balwadkar (Standing Committee Member) attended the session, dedicating ample time to listen to citizens’ concerns. They assured prompt action and emphasized collective coordination to resolve issues and drive development in the area.

The Federation announced that all citizen-raised issues will be consolidated and formally submitted to corporators. Ahead of the upcoming municipal elections in January 2026, the Federation had already released a citizens’ manifesto titled “Balewadi Welfare Federation – Deliverables 2026–2031,” which will continue to be pursued with elected representatives.

It was unanimously decided that “Jan Samvad” will be organized once every three months to review progress on civic works. Corporators were felicitated by community members including Ashish Kotamkar, Moreshwar Balwadkar, Yash Chaudhary, Daffedar Singh, Vandana Chaudhary, Shubhangi Chapaté, Shakil Salati, Sachin Patil, Shailesh Patil, and Rajiv Shah.

Federation President Ramesh Rokade reiterated that citizens must take proactive roles in solving local issues, while the Federation provides the necessary platform. The program was anchored by Yogesh Dumbare, with moderation by Shubhangi Chapaté and Shakil Salati, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Moreshwar Balwadkar.