Pune: PMC Agrees to Shift Proposed Tanker Filling Point After Residents’ Protest in Mohammadwadi

Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Mohammadwadi, July 1, 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has agreed to relocate a proposed water tanker filling point from a civic amenity plot in Mohammadwadi following strong opposition from hundreds of residents, social activists, and Ward 41 corporators, who argued that the land should instead be developed into a public green space.

The protest was held at the proposed site near Raheja Vista B2 in Ward 41, where around 400 residents, including 60 to 70 women, gathered to oppose the project. Among those present were Ashok Keshav Mehendale, former Member of the PMC Education Board; social activists Rohan Gaikwad and Rajiv Hemadi; Tarasingh, President of Anandvan Parisar Nagarik Manch; senior journalist Raj Singh; and local residents Manjiri Thakur, Sameer Chaudhary, Zaheer Darbar, and Sachin Ghule.

Ward 41 corporators Nivrutti (Anna) Bandal, Prachi Alhat, Shweta Ghule, and Atul Tarawade were also present, along with PMC Water Supply Department Superintending Engineer Virendra Kelkar and other civic officials.

The PMC had recently begun work to establish a tanker filling point on a plot reserved for civic amenities near Raheja Vista B2. Residents objected to the proposal, stating that the location is surrounded by residential complexes, commercial establishments, and Vibgyor School, where thousands of students commute daily. They argued that the movement of 100 to 200 water tankers every day would worsen traffic congestion, increase the risk of accidents, and contribute to air and noise pollution.

Residents further pointed out that the plot is reserved for public amenities and should not be converted into infrastructure for water tankers. They also noted that after Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated new water tanks in Mohammadwadi on May 17 and announced that the area would become tanker-free through a pipeline-based water supply system, the civic body’s focus should remain on strengthening permanent water infrastructure rather than expanding tanker operations.

Following discussions at the site, the four Ward 41 corporators announced that the proposed tanker filling point would not be established at the location and that work had been halted. PMC officials assured residents that the necessary administrative process to relocate the project would be initiated.

Residents also presented an alternative proposal for the civic amenity plot. They suggested developing it into a community garden with tree plantation, seating for senior citizens, a children’s play area, walking paths, and other recreational facilities. They said local residents were willing to contribute towards maintaining the space to prevent it from becoming an illegal garbage dumping site.

Ashok Keshav Mehendale, former Member of the PMC Education Board, said, “This civic amenity plot is meant for public welfare and should not be converted into a tanker filling station. The Chief Minister had announced that Mohammadwadi would become a tanker-free area through a permanent pipeline network. Instead of creating infrastructure for more tankers, the PMC should focus on ensuring regular piped water supply. We welcome the decision to stop the work and hope this land is developed into a garden and other public amenities for residents.”

Ward 41 Corporator Nivrutti (Anna) Bandal said, “The sentiments of residents are clear. This tanker filling station will not be allowed here. We stand with the people and will continue pursuing the matter with the PMC until the proposal is permanently withdrawn and the site is developed for public use.”

Ward 41 Corporator Prachi Alhat said, “Public safety is our priority. We opposed this tanker filling point because it would have increased traffic congestion and posed risks to residents, especially schoolchildren. The civic amenity plot should benefit the community.”

Ward 41 Corporator Shweta Ghule said, “The civic amenity plot should be used for facilities that improve the quality of life of residents. A garden, open space, and other public amenities are far more suitable than a tanker filling station.”

Ward 41 Corporator Atul Tarawade said, “All of us are united on this issue. We assure residents that this proposed tanker filling station will not be permitted at this location. We will work with the PMC to identify an appropriate alternative site.”

Senior journalist Raj Singh, one of the organisers, said, “Our roads are already under immense pressure due to increasing traffic. Allowing hundreds of additional water tankers into this locality every day would only worsen the situation. The PMC should identify a more suitable location while expediting permanent water pipeline infrastructure.”

Tarasingh, President of Anandvan Parisar Nagarik Manch, said, “Residents from across Mohammadwadi have united to protect their neighbourhood. We appreciate the PMC’s assurance to shift the project and expect the administration to honour its commitment by developing this land for public benefit.”

Social activist Rohan Gaikwad said, “This civic amenity plot should become a green public space. Residents are ready to contribute towards developing a small garden with trees, seating for senior citizens, and a play area for children. If the land is left vacant, it risks becoming a garbage dumping site. We want this space to serve the community.”

Social activist Rajiv Hemadi said, “Emergency tanker facilities, if required, should be located outside densely populated residential areas. Long-term planning must focus on sustainable pipeline-based water supply rather than increasing dependence on water tankers.”

Residents welcomed the PMC’s decision to relocate the proposed tanker filling point but stressed that the administration should now issue a formal order confirming the relocation. They also urged the civic body to expedite permanent pipeline-based water supply projects in Mohammadwadi, Undri, Pisoli, and surrounding areas while developing the civic amenity plot into a community garden for the benefit of present and future residents.