Pune: PCMC Mayor Cancels Azerbaijan Visit Following PM Modi’s Appeal on Austerity
Pimpri Chinchwad, 14th May 2026: Pimpri Chinchwad mayor Ravi Landge has cancelled his scheduled visit to Baku, Azerbaijan, to attend the World Urban Forum, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal for fuel conservation, responsible governance and avoidance of unnecessary foreign travel amid the prevailing global situation.
Landge was scheduled to travel to Baku along with his officer on special duty (OSD) between May 17 and 22 to participate in the international urban development event where mayors from over 150 countries were scheduled to participate. However, the mayor on Wednesday announced that the trip had been cancelled in view of the current circumstances and the need to curb avoidable expenditure.
The decision comes days after Prime Minister Modi, during a public event in Hyderabad, urged citizens and public representatives to avoid unnecessary foreign travel and focus on fuel conservation in the backdrop of the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict and its impact on the global situation.
In a statement, Landge said the civic administration must set an example in adopting austerity measures and ensuring responsible use of public resources. He added that the decision was taken in line with the Prime Minister’s appeal and considering the need for prudent spending by public bodies.
The cancellation of the foreign visit also comes amid public criticism over certain expenditure-related proposals within the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), including a proposed hike in fuel allowances for senior civic officials and plans to appoint security guards for key office-bearers. Both proposals were later dropped by the civic body following objections from activists and residents’ groups.
