The preliminary work for the drinking water supply project in all merged areas within the Pune civic limits is expected to commence by August, according to Pune municipal commissioner Naval Kishore Ram. Speaking on Wednesday, he confirmed that work has already started in some areas, including Wagholi and Sus-Bavdhan.
Progress and Plans
Ram stated that work in the remaining areas is anticipated to begin by August. The detailed project reports (DPRs) for water supply projects in these regions are expected to be finalized soon. A total of 23 areas have been awaiting equitable water supply despite being part of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for the past four years. Residents have been demanding daily tap water supply to reduce reliance on tankers.
Water Purification Initiative
The commissioner revealed that the administration has prepared a plan to supply purified water to 12 areas where Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases were reported. This Rs856-crore plan includes the establishment of water purification plants.
Funding and Infrastructure
The PMC is seeking Rs2,000 crore to enhance water supply and strengthen sewage systems in merged areas, along with executing flood mitigation measures within the old city limits. The corporation has identified around 360 spots for these measures, with a proposed expenditure of Rs400 crore. All major water supply and sewage works are expected to be completed within the next two years.
Tunnel Proposals
Ram also mentioned that five tunnel proposals connecting different parts of the city are under study. These tunnels are proposed from Yerawada to Khadi Machine Chowk, Sinhagad Road to Aundh, Khadki to Shastrinagar (ahead of Yerawada), Seven Loves Chowk to Sinhagad Road, and Hinjewadi to Pashan. The preliminary cost estimate for these tunnels is Rs34,000 crore. A special purpose vehicle will be constituted to conduct further studies, PMC officials said.
