Pune: Despite the administrative authority granted to the municipal commissioner under the ongoing administrative rule, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has made slow progress in executing developmental works. Of the ₹1,422.32 crore allocated for capital expenditure in the 2024-25 budget, only ₹526.63 crore has been spent in nine months, leaving a significant ₹895.26 crore unused.

Administrative Rule and Capital Expenditure Challenges

Since March 13, 2022, when the term of elected corporators ended, the PCMC has been functioning under administrative rule, with the commissioner acting as the sole decision-making authority. Despite this centralized governance, capital expenditure on key infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, and urban designs, has been sluggish.

In the 2024-25 budget, ₹1,422.32 crore was allocated for ongoing and new capital works. However, data reveals that only 37.04% of this allocation has been utilized, with the remaining ₹895.26 crore needing to be spent in the last three months of the financial year. If the funds remain unspent, they will be reallocated to other projects.

Focus Shifts to MPs’ and MLAs’ Suggestions

Previously, corporators proposed and prioritized developmental works for execution. In their absence, the administration is now focusing on projects suggested by Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). This shift may lead to the initiation of significant projects in the coming months.

March Deadline for Completion

PCMC City engineer Makarand Nikam stated that the development works had slowed due to the election code of conduct for Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. However, payments are linked to project milestones, and a push is expected in the final quarter of the financial year. Contractors are likely to submit their bills before March 31, 2025, ensuring maximum utilization of the allocated funds.

Key Figures at a Glance

• Allocated Budget for Capital Expenditure: ₹1,422.32 crore

• Expenditure (First 9 Months): ₹526.63 crore

• Remaining Funds: ₹895.26 crore