Ajit Pawar's Enduring Influence on Pune's Political and Administrative Fabric
Ajit Pawar, who embarked on his political journey as an MP from Baramati in 1991, exerted a profound and lasting control over the political dynamics and administrative machinery of Pune for several decades. Serving as the district guardian minister on numerous occasions, he emerged as the central figure in city politics following the departure of the once-dominant Congress leader, Suresh Kalmadi. This transition marked a significant shift in Pune's political landscape, with Pawar stepping into a leadership vacuum and reshaping governance priorities.
Dominance in Civic Governance and Infrastructure Milestones
Under his stewardship, the undivided Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) governed the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad municipal bodies throughout the 2000s and into the early 2010s. His tenure is widely credited with accelerating critical transportation initiatives, most notably the Pune Metro project, alongside the construction of multiple flyovers and tunnels aimed at alleviating the region's severe traffic congestion. These efforts addressed one of Pune's most pressing urban challenges, enhancing mobility and connectivity for residents and businesses alike.
Moreover, Pawar tackled the persistent issue of water scarcity through strategic projects such as the Bhama Askhed Dam and various irrigation schemes. His focus on water security extended to urban areas, where he implemented measures to ensure reliable supply and reduce dependency on unsustainable sources. In Pimpri Chinchwad, he was consistently praised for large-scale infrastructure developments and road networks, personally overseeing the affairs of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) until the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) gained power in the 2017 elections.
Visionary Roadmaps and Campaign Promises for Urban Transformation
In the lead-up to the PCMC poll on January 15, Ajit Pawar unveiled an ambitious roadmap for Pimpri Chinchwad, pledging to transform it into a model of urban infrastructure and civic efficiency. A joint manifesto released with the NCP (SP) on January 10 included commitments to resolve the long-standing water crisis by guaranteeing daily supply. During campaigning for both civic bodies, he made sweeping promises, such as free Metro and PMPML bus rides, property tax waivers for small homes, and the establishment of 100 neighbourhood clinics.
Recent initiatives under his leadership, including the resolution of red zone areas and the expansion of the Hinjewadi-Chakan industrial corridor, were viewed as pivotal for regional growth. Supporters highlighted that Pawar's vision for Pimpri Chinchwad was anchored in a dual-track strategy focusing on water security and mass transit expansion, designed to keep pace with rapid industrial development. Key projects like Bhama Askhed phase-2, which aims to inject an additional 168 million liters per day (MLD) into water supply lines, and the revival of the Pavana Dam-to-Nigdi closed pipeline—a Rs 1,100 crore priority—aim to eliminate reliance on the "tanker mafia" and modernize distribution through SCADA monitoring systems.
Comprehensive Transportation Overhaul and Environmental Initiatives
The transportation overhaul outlined in his roadmap featured a 35-40 km Metro extension to Chakan and a pioneering proposal for fare-free public transport to reduce urban congestion. As guardian minister, Pawar fast-tracked the Rs 9,897 crore Pune Metro phase 2 proposal and sanctioned critical connectivity projects, such as the Rs 7,515 crore elevated highway to Shirur and the strategic MSRDC ring road. His environmental agenda centered on the Mula-Mutha Riverfront Development, with the first phase in Sangamwadi set to open soon, according to colleagues.
Reimagining Administrative Structures and Economic Ambitions
Beyond physical infrastructure, Ajit Pawar reimagined Pune's administrative future by proposing three new municipal corporations for its expanding suburbs. These efforts were part of a broader "growth hub" blueprint aimed at positioning Pune as a national leader in artificial intelligence and electric vehicle manufacturing, with an ambitious target of creating 18 lakh jobs by 2030. This vision underscored his commitment to decentralised governance and economic diversification.
Personal Dedication and Legacy in Baramati
Ajit Pawar was also instrumental in executing development projects in his hometown, Baramati. He reportedly spent at least one day each week in Baramati, beginning inspection work as early as 6 a.m. His efforts placed Baramati on the national map through numerous path-breaking projects, reflecting his deep-rooted connection to the region. A supporter from Baramati emphasized, "Ajit Pawar used to start the inspection work early morning, around 6am. He placed Baramati town on the national map by executing many path-breaking projects."
The news of his demise has left many in disbelief. Pradip Deshmukh, a senior NCP member, expressed, "We are speechless. His demise is unbelievable. The vacuum cannot be filled," highlighting the profound impact Pawar had on his party and the broader community. His legacy continues to shape Pune's trajectory, from infrastructure advancements to political realignments, leaving an indelible mark on the city's development narrative.
