Pune Needs Two Municipal Corporations: Minister Chandrakant Patil

02 Jan 2025 CW Team

Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil reiterated the urgent need for two municipal corporations in Pune, citing the city's growing geographical area and administrative challenges. Speaking at an event by the Pune Shramik Patrakar Sangh, Patil emphasised that delaying this decision is no longer feasible. Patil, who represents Kothrud in the Maharashtra Assembly, stated, "Given Pune's increasing size, two independent municipal corporations are essential. The decision on merging cantonment boards should also be expedited." He noted that political, social, and geographical factors must be considered during the division process, adding that the historical significance of Pune would play a role in naming the two entities. The BJP leader highlighted the Mahayuti coalition's majority in the state and confirmed that the issue would be prioritised once government work resumes in January. "Municipal elections are likely in April-May, so this cannot be delayed further," he added. NCP MLA from Hadapsar, Chetan Tupe, supported the proposal, pointing out that the merger of villages and rising population have strained the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Tupe suggested dividing the city into eastern and western municipal corporations for better governance. Patil's stance echoes his 2022 remarks, where he called for splitting the PMC following the merger of 23 villages, which significantly expanded its jurisdiction. With growing consensus among political leaders, the proposal for dividing Pune's municipal governance is set to gain momentum. (Indian Express)

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