BJP Criticizes Pune Municipal Administration for Inefficiency; Calls for Fast-Tracked Development Work
Pune, 6th January 2025: Despite having six BJP MLAs, two MPs, and three ministers in Pune, the party expressed dissatisfaction with the functioning of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) under the administrator’s rule. Senior BJP leaders criticized the municipal administration for its inefficiency in implementing developmental works ordered by the ruling party representatives.
A meeting to address development issues and administrative inefficiency was held on Saturday at the Pune Municipal Corporation under the leadership of Union Minister of State Muralidhar Mohol and Maharashtra Minister Chandrakant Patil. Present at the meeting were MLAs Bhimrao Tapkir, Sunil Kamble, Hemant Rasane, City BJP President Dheeraj Ghate, and other senior leaders and officials, including PMC Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale and department heads.
Speaking at a press conference following the meeting, Mohol criticized the slow progress of work. “From July to January, there has been progress, but it is not sufficient. The administration has been directed to expedite projects. Funds are being provided by the central and state governments, but inefficiency within the administration is hindering implementation,” Mohol said.
Mohol emphasized the need for decisive action against encroachments in the city. “The construction and encroachment departments must take joint action and submit reports to us. We want a permanent solution to encroachment issues. Officials have been warned that failure to remove encroachments will result in action against them. None of us will interfere in these actions, and no excuses will be entertained,” he stated.
Traffic congestion, another pressing concern for Punekars, was also discussed. BJP MLAs raised issues specific to their constituencies and inquired about the non-implementation of the Municipal Corporation’s traffic plan. The administration explained that the plan would be finalized after consultations with Metro officials and gathering citizen feedback. Mohol assured a joint meeting between the PMC, Metro authorities, and the traffic police to resolve the city’s traffic woes.
Chandrakant Patil highlighted administrative challenges due to frequent transfers and promotions during the election period. “In the last six months, the code of conduct for two elections has resulted in forced transfers. Regular transfers are now taking place, with 20-22 officers promoted and 200 more set to be transferred. Pune, after Mumbai, has the highest number of large-scale projects underway. To manage these, an additional commissioner is essential. We will discuss this with the Chief Minister,” Patil said.
Addressing gaps in previous efforts, Patil said, “During the election code of conduct, we couldn’t follow up on some matters. However, from now on, we will hold monthly review meetings to monitor progress. By January 20, Mohol and I will meet Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to demand funds for land acquisition and other requirements.”
The BJP leaders’ sharp criticism of the municipal administration reflects mounting frustration with the slow pace of development in Pune, a city grappling with rapid urbanization and infrastructural challenges.
