Pune, 10 July 2025: In a landmark decision, the Maharashtra Government has given in-principle approval for the merger of Khadki and Pune Cantonment Boards with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). This historic announcement was made during a high-level meeting held today at Vidhan Bhavan, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, senior cabinet members, MLAs, and top government officials.
The merger, which has been under discussion for nearly four years, is now set to be executed within a three-month timeframe, as per the directions of Deputy CM Fadnavis. He has assured full support from the state government to ensure the smooth completion of the process, emphasizing that this step will significantly improve the quality of life for residents in the cantonment areas.
By integrating the Khadki and Pune cantonment zones into the PMC’s jurisdiction, lakhs of residents will gain better access to essential civic amenities such as clean drinking water, effective sanitation, efficient waste management, healthcare facilities, and improved road infrastructure. The merger is expected to bridge the longstanding civic service gaps in these areas.
The move also marks a shift towards more unified and effective urban governance. With cantonment areas often governed by independent boards under central jurisdiction, delays and administrative hurdles were common. Bringing these areas under the PMC will ensure faster decision-making and more coordinated citywide infrastructure planning.
Back in 2023, the state government had tasked PMC with holding consultations with the respective cantonment administrations and preparing a detailed report on the merger. With today’s approval, that groundwork has borne fruit, setting the stage for a transformative change in Pune’s urban landscape.
