The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has found itself in hot water as residents of Tukai Darshan and Fursungi areas express outrage over what they perceive as a lack of efficient water management.
Notices issued by the Hadapsar-Mundhwa Ward Office regarding water wastage have sparked anger and frustration among citizens, who blame the municipal water supply department for its failure to address the issue adequately. Residents have raised concerns over the arbitrary release of water in their localities, alleging that the PMC has not conducted any inquiries or established a proper schedule for water distribution. The absence of a fixed timetable for water release has made it challenging for citizens to plan their daily activities, leading to frustration and inconvenience. Furthermore, residents have criticised the PMC for its inability to provide a consistent and reliable water supply despite levying house and water rents. Complaints regarding irregular water release timings, inadequate pressure, and unresponsive behaviour from water dispensers have fallen on deaf ears, with citizens alleging a lack of accountability and transparency in the management of water resources.
Repeated attempts to contact the municipal authorities have yielded little to no response, exacerbating the grievances of residents who feel ignored and neglected by the PMC. Despite complaints registered with the PMC helpline numbers, residents claim that no meaningful action has been taken to address the underlying issues plaguing the water supply system. Key grievances highlighted by citizens include the untimely release of water, reluctance from water dispensers to address concerns, and instances of water wastage due to negligence or deliberate misconduct. Residents demand urgent intervention from the water supply department to establish a transparent and efficient water distribution schedule that caters to the needs of the community.
Indrabhan Randive, Executive Engineer, Lashkar Water Supply Department, said “Water is supplied to citizens in Tukai Darshan and other areas as per schedule. It was seen that some citizens were wasting water. Water is being released on the road, water is flowing from the tanks on the house. It is not right to let such water go to waste when there is a water crisis. So action is being taken by Wallman, Junior Engineer. The action taken is right as they are wasting water despite constant appeals to the citizens. Citizens should use water sparingly, action session will continue if water is wasted.” The water woes faced by residents of Tukai Darshan and Fursungi underscore the pressing need for the PMC to prioritise effective water management strategies and ensure accountability in its operations. As citizens continue to grapple with irregular water supply and inadequate responses from authorities, there is a growing urgency to address systemic flaws and enhance the quality and reliability of water services in Pune.