Development in eleven villages merged into the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) jurisdiction seven years ago has hit a significant roadblock due to prolonged delays in drafting a comprehensive development plan. The affected villages, including Lohegaon, Mundhwa, Undri, Ambegaon Khurd, Ambegaon Budruk, Uruli Devachi, Phursungi, Dhayari, Shivane, and Uttam Nagar, were integrated with the PMC in 2017. However, their anticipated growth and development have languished since then.
Originally, the PMC was entrusted with the task of drafting a development plan starting in 2018. However, progress was stymied by various factors, notably the Covid-19 pandemic. Recently, the responsibility for the development plan was transferred to the state government, further delaying the process. Despite repeated requests from the PMC for an extension, there has been no concrete response, leading to growing frustration among local authorities and residents.
According to PMC officials, the transfer of authority to approve new constructions in these villages to the state government has further complicated matters. This shift has sidelined the PMC’s local insights and expertise regarding planned amenity spaces, impeding development efforts.
Prior to their merger with the PMC, these villages fell under the jurisdiction of the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). In 2016, the PMRDA initiated a broader regional development plan, conducting essential data gathering and land use surveys. The authority had also proposed a town planning scheme for areas like Ambegaon Khurd and Phursungi, particularly in light of the planned construction of a 123-kilometre ring road through these regions. The PMRDA had sought state permission to proceed with these schemes to streamline future development efforts.
The ongoing deadlock has left local authorities urging the state government to take swift action to initiate the development plans that are crucial for these expanding urban areas. The absence of a development plan has not only stalled infrastructure projects but also hindered the overall progress and growth potential of these villages.
The delay in planning and development has significant implications for the residents of these villages, who have been left waiting for improved amenities and infrastructure. The impasse underscores the need for efficient coordination between local and state government bodies to ensure that urban development keeps pace with the needs of growing populations.
As the situation stands, the lack of a development plan continues to be a significant barrier to the progress of these merged villages. Local authorities remain hopeful that the state government will soon address the issue, allowing for the much-needed development initiatives to finally take off.
