Pune: In a controversial move, ₹38.50 crore from the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) 2024-25 budget, originally allocated to improve water supply and roads in underdeveloped villages, has been diverted to Baner, Balewadi, and Sus—areas that are already relatively developed. This reallocation is expected to negatively impact underdeveloped regions, exposing the developmental imbalance in the city.

PMC had allocated ₹10 crore to prepare a master plan for water supply in the 32 newly added villages within its jurisdiction. Another ₹10 crore was set aside for modernizing water supply systems, and ₹18.50 crore was allocated for asphalting roads in various areas, totaling ₹38.50 crore.

Among the newly added villages, plans for water supply have been prepared and work initiated in Sus, Mahalunge, Lohegaon, and Wagholi. However, villages like Khadakwasla, Dhayari, Narhe, Mangdewadi, Bhilarewadi, and Ambegaon are yet to see any progress. These areas, already suffering from poor roads and inadequate water supply, were to benefit from the allocated funds.

With PMC elections pending, development work across the city has been delayed. Despite the need for funds across all regions, certain influential individuals from Baner, Balewadi, and Sus allegedly used political pressure to secure this allocation. Consequently, ₹38.50 crore has been diverted to fund works such as replacing sewer pipelines, installing stormwater drains, asphalting and developing roads, and filling potholes in these areas.

PMC Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale defended the decision, stating, "Local representatives demanded funds after inspecting the areas and highlighting the need for development. We will ensure the funds are spent appropriately and the allocated projects are completed as intended."

Development Imbalance Highlighted

Baner, Balewadi, Sus, and Pashan are already equipped with better civic amenities compared to other parts of the city. Diverting funds meant for water supply and road development in less-developed villages to these areas has exposed a clear imbalance in the city’s developmental priorities, fueled by political influence.