Residents of Pune’s newly formed Ward 40, encompassing Kondhwa Budruk, Yewalewadi, and Katraj, have raised concerns over inadequate water supply, poor road infrastructure, and incomplete civic projects, highlighting long-standing gaps in local urban planning. Citizens report that even during the monsoon, water pressure remains low, affecting day-to-day activities and overall quality of life.
The hilly terrain of this ward compounds these issues, making water distribution inconsistent despite steady supply in other parts of Pune. Residents have pointed to persistent problems such as pothole-ridden internal roads, incomplete drainage networks, and encroachments on key thoroughfares. One resident noted that road projects in areas including Shivshambho Nagar, Mahadevnagar, and Gokulnagar remain unfinished, resulting in unsafe conditions and flooding during rains. Traffic congestion is another major concern, particularly on DP roads that have not been upgraded. Encroachment by informal vendors along roads such as Sukhsagarnagar Road and Shatrunjay Mandir to VIT Chowk further complicates mobility, creating safety hazards and obstructing the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. The absence of public toilets in busy areas adds to citizen discomfort, particularly affecting women and vulnerable populations.
Local residents have also raised concerns about stalled social infrastructure projects, including a playground and an e-learning centre in Katraj, which remain incomplete despite being crucial for community development. “We are looking for representatives who can deliver essential infrastructure rather than just make promises,” said a local community leader, reflecting growing citizen frustration ahead of municipal elections. Urban planners observe that these gaps underscore the challenges of rapid urban expansion without adequate investment in foundational services. Ward 40, being newly created, requires coordinated efforts between municipal authorities, water supply departments, and urban development agencies to ensure equitable access to essential services. Experts highlight that addressing drainage, road quality, and water distribution can significantly improve both mobility and citizen well-being in the area.
Residents emphasise the need for timely completion of civic works and proactive monitoring to prevent encroachments, reduce congestion, and enhance basic amenities. Ensuring reliable water supply, safe roads, and functional public facilities aligns with Pune’s broader goals of sustainable and inclusive urban development, reinforcing the importance of citizen-centric planning in growing metropolitan regions. The situation in Ward 40 reflects a broader lesson for urban authorities: infrastructure planning must prioritise equity, sustainability, and usability to meet the needs of citizens living in topographically challenging and rapidly expanding urban areas.
Pune Residents Complain Over Poor Water Supply Bad Roads And Unfinished Civic Works
