Pune: PMC Additional Commissioner Vikas Dhakane, The Infrastructure Action Man, Transferred

Tikam Shekhawat

Pune, 20th March 2024: In a surprising turn of events, Punekars were caught off guard yesterday evening as the Maharashtra state government issued orders for the transfer of Vikas Dhakane, the man known for his impactful contributions to the infrastructure development in Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

Dhakane, serving as the Additional Commissioner, has been a driving force behind numerous development projects in Pune aimed at reshaping the city’s urban landscape.

The decision, as per government sources, is in compliance with the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India regarding the transfer of executive officers. These guidelines mandate the transfer of Municipal Commissioners or Additional Municipal Commissioners who have completed more than three years in their current postings, particularly if they are stationed in their home district within Maharashtra.

However, despite Dhakane’s tenure in PMC and PCMC being less than three years, the state government’s directive has left many Punekars shocked, with expectations for a reconsideration of the order.

Sandeep Lonkar, Secratory, BJP Pune City, expressed his dismay, stating, “This is truly unfortunate. A competent officer who has significantly contributed to redefining the city’s infrastructure is being reassigned. Such a move will undoubtedly impact Punekars, with ongoing projects left hanging. Dhakane Sahab has demonstrated his efficiency by swiftly resolving long-standing issues like the road problem in Keshav Nagar, which persisted for 35 years.”

Echoing Lonkar’s sentiments, Ali Daruwala, the spokesperson of Maharashtra BJP, lamented the loss for the city’s residents, emphasizing Dhakane’s pivotal role in steering Pune towards becoming a smart city.

“Transferring an officer deeply engaged in infrastructural enhancements is counterproductive. Dhakane understands the pulse of the city and the necessity of infrastructural growth for public welfare,” Daruwala added.

Rajesh Pande, a Senior BJP Leader from Pune, commended Dhakane’s dynamic approach, noting his involvement in supporting PMC projects related to cultural and social development.

Dhakane’s noteworthy contributions to Pune’s infrastructure include initiatives to bridge 33 Missing Links to Main roads, the establishment of a Traffic Education Park, and the reconstruction of 15 major roads. Notably, his oversight of the Katraj Kondhwa Road widening project, closely monitored by state leaders, underscores his pivotal role in key infrastructural endeavors.

When approached for comment, Dhakane affirmed that he has yet to complete three years in his current assignments, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad’s development.

Sources familiar with the matter suggest that given Dhakane’s prowess in infrastructural development, the state government may reconsider his transfer or assign him to pivotal roles, such as the Pune Smart City initiative.