Pune, 17 July 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is preparing to make a formal presentation to representatives of the World Bank, seeking financial assistance for several large-scale infrastructure projects in the city. With the rapid expansion of Pune's municipal limits, especially after the inclusion of surrounding villages, the city faces mounting challenges in delivering essential civic amenities.
Developing basic infrastructure like roads, water supply, sewage treatment, storm-water drains, and water purification systems in the newly merged areas will require massive investments. However, PMC does not currently have sufficient funds to undertake all these projects simultaneously, resulting in slow-paced development in many areas.
Another key focus is improving wastewater management. Currently, Pune draws around 1,750 MLD (million litres per day) of water from dams. About 80% of this becomes wastewater, yet only 40% is being treated. The untreated sewage flowing into rivers like the Mula-Mutha poses serious environmental and health risks.
PMC plans to install advanced sewage treatment plants and promote the reuse of treated water to address the looming water crisis and manage limited dam resources more efficiently.
To fund these critical projects, which are expected to cost thousands of crores, PMC is turning to the World Bank. Senior officials stated that a presentation will soon be made, and select proposals may qualify for financial assistance.
The initiative also aligns with efforts by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who has been advocating for World Bank support to help major cities in Maharashtra implement infrastructure projects.
