Pune: Janata Darbar At Katraj Demands End To Neglect, Fight For Basic Amenities
Katraj, 13th June 2023: A significant protest took place at Katraj Main Chowk recently, as citizens gathered for a Janata Darbar to voice their concerns and grievances against the local administration. Led by the founder president of Katraj Vikas Aghadi, Namesh Babar, the protest aimed to address a range of issues affecting the entire Katraj area.
During the Janata Darbar, various demands were raised by the united locals under the guidance of Katraj Vikas Aghadi. These demands included the allocation of 5 acres in Gayran for Katraj, Upper Indiranagar, Ambegaon, Mangdewadi Bhilarewadi, and Gujar Nimbalkarwadi, as well as the establishment of a separate high voltage power station and 24-hour uninterrupted power supply in Katraj.
Additionally, citizens called for abundant and timely water supply, the construction of a separate water tank in Gayran for Katraj, the development of a combined Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the BRT system to alleviate traffic congestion at Katraj Chowk and Katraj-Kondhwa Road, and the introduction of a proposed metro system.
Moreover, demands were made for the construction of ongoing flyovers, grade separators, and the closure of liquor shops in residential areas. The cancellation of the zhijia tax imposed by the Municipal Corporation and the resolution of issues related to Gavani Colony and unfair reservations in newly incorporated villages were also sought.
The citizens present, especially women, emphasized the urgent need for basic facilities in Katraj, such as improved safety measures, regular water and electricity supply, a health center, a maternity home, and the immediate closure of liquor shops in residential quarters.
One of the major concerns expressed by the citizens was the issue of road safety, with Katraj facing significant traffic congestion and a high number of road accidents. Shockingly, the accidents have claimed the lives of 300 individuals, while thousands have been displaced. The local residents voiced their disappointment that despite paying taxes for years, they have yet to receive these essential amenities.
In response to the citizens’ grievances, several public representatives, including MP Dr. Amol Kolhe, MLA Chetan Tupe, Sanjay Jagtap, and former MLA Yogesh Tilekar, engaged in discussions with the protesters. Assurances were given by the people’s representatives that they would swiftly work towards finding solutions to the pressing issues raised during the Janata Darbar.
MP Kolhe revealed that discussions have already taken place with the municipal commissioner to increase water supply capacity (WTP) in the Vadgaon Budruk division. A substantial increase of 30 million liters per day (MLD) is planned for the Katraj area, providing a promising resolution to the water scarcity problem faced by the residents.
Present at the gathering were corporator Amrita Babar and various officials from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), who witnessed firsthand the citizens’ determination and demands for a better Katraj.
The protest served as a powerful reminder that the people of Katraj will continue to advocate for their rights until their demands for development and basic amenities are met by the authorities.
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