Residents of Wagholi, a rapidly developed area on Pune's eastern fringe, have drafted a comprehensive 40-point charter of demands for candidates contesting the upcoming Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) elections scheduled for January 15. The manifesto highlights the severe infrastructure deficit plaguing the region, which transformed from a village to a major residential and IT hub after its inclusion in the PMC limits.
Core Demands: From Basic Amenities to Transparent Governance
The charter, prepared by the Wagholi Housing Societies Association, addresses chronic issues stemming from unplanned urban growth. Sandesh Lokhande, a director of the association, stated that their primary concerns include a permanent sewage and drainage management system to combat frequent waterlogging, especially near Bhairavnath lake and Lohegaon Road during monsoons.
"Solid waste management has emerged as another major concern. Residents demand permanent removal of the garbage depot located behind Emerald Isle and Majestic Meadows housing societies," Lokhande added. The agenda also prioritizes reliable water availability through a transparent supply schedule and old pipeline replacement, alongside uninterrupted electricity on major roads.
Traffic Chaos and Safety Top Residents' Grievances
Another association director, Santosh Krishna, pointed to the severe traffic congestion on key arteries like Nagar Road, Lohegaon Road, Bakori Road, and Kesnand Road. The demands call for immediate widening work, proper footpaths, lane markings, permanent traffic control solutions, and strict action against encroachments and illegal roadside parking.
Connectivity forms a crucial part of the manifesto. Residents are pushing for the extension of the Metro rail up to Wagholi, development of PMPML and ST bus stands, and safer roads equipped with speed breakers, zebra crossings, and better street lighting.
A Call for Safety, Healthcare, and Political Accountability
Safety concerns after dark, particularly along Lohegaon Road, have prompted calls for a dedicated police control room. Ankush Dey, another director, revealed that their survey highlighted the need for high-quality government medical facilities, a multispeciality hospital, renovated Marathi medium schools, libraries, playgrounds, public toilets, and green spaces through large-scale tree plantation.
Transparency in local politics is a key focus. The charter demands annual wealth declarations by candidates, disclosure of their legal backgrounds, and regular communication through mohalla committees. Kailash Bawane, a director, emphasized that the manifesto is citizen-driven and not aligned with any political party.
"This manifesto is about our everyday struggles and our right to basic civic dignity — from clean water and safe roads to healthcare, education and transparent leadership. We expect whoever seeks our votes to commit clearly to these priorities and deliver measurable results over the next five years," Bawane asserted.
The association plans to amplify these demands through social media campaigns and public outreach, urging active resident participation to ensure Wagholi's voice is heard in the civic polls.
