Nashik Mayor Unveils 'Letter to Residents' Initiative to Enhance Civic Engagement
In a significant move to foster better communication with the public, Nashik Mayor Himgauri Aher announced a new initiative titled "Letter to Residents" on Thursday. This program is designed to establish a more robust and ongoing dialogue between the municipal administration and the city's residents, with its official launch scheduled for February 27, coinciding with Marathi Language Day.
Digital Helpline and Monthly Responses to Boost Interaction
During a press conference, Mayor Aher detailed that the initiative will be complemented by a 24x7 helpline on a digital platform. This helpline will enable residents to report various civic issues, such as potholes or irregular water supply, and share suggestions directly with the authorities. "Every month, I will respond to the queries posted by the residents through media and other platforms, ensuring sustained communication and improved interaction with the public through this new initiative," she emphasized.
Addressing Key Civic Concerns and Upcoming Kumbh Mela Preparations
The mayor highlighted that this initiative comes at a crucial time, as the civic body has recently transitioned from nearly four years of administrative governance to having elected representatives. "We will inform the residents about the changes that occurred during the last four years. Additionally, with the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela, various works are underway in the city, and the state government has established a Kumbh Mela Authority. There are several questions in the minds of residents, and this initiative will address them," Aher added.
She pointed out specific pressing issues in Nashik, including:
- Irregular water supply affecting daily life.
- Deteriorating road conditions with numerous potholes.
These concerns were recently raised by corporators during a meeting of the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) general body. In response, a special general body meeting has been scheduled between March 6 and 10 to discuss water supply and road-related problems in detail.
Ward-Wise Visits Planned for Comprehensive Outreach
To further strengthen grassroots engagement, Mayor Aher announced plans for ward-wise visits across Nashik. She aims to cover all 31 wards within the next 100 days, allowing for direct interaction with residents and on-the-ground assessment of local issues. This proactive approach underscores the administration's commitment to transparency and responsive governance.
The "Letter to Residents" initiative represents a strategic effort to bridge the gap between the municipal body and the public, particularly as the city gears up for major events like the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. By leveraging digital tools and regular communication, the Nashik Municipal Corporation seeks to create a more inclusive and effective civic environment.
