In a significant pre-poll announcement, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has committed to pursuing the long-standing demand for carving out a separate district for Pimpri Chinchwad, to be named 'Shivneri'. The promise was a centerpiece of the party's manifesto for the upcoming civic elections, unveiled by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at a public rally in Akurdi on Saturday.
Core Promises and Political Reactions
The manifesto outlines a transformative vision for the industrially crucial region. The proposal for a separate 'Shivneri' district aims to address the city's rapid growth and the need for dedicated administrative machinery. This demand, initially raised by BJP MLA Mahesh Landge in 2023, received a nuanced response from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. On Sunday, Pawar stated his party would not oppose the plan "if a decision benefits the city in any way."
Beyond the district issue, the BJP made several key pledges aimed at boosting industrial governance and local identity:
- Formation of separate industrial municipal corporations for the Hinjewadi and Chakan-Talegaon MIDC areas to improve infrastructure.
- A directive to online shopping platforms and post offices to specifically mention 'Pimpri Chinchwad' in addresses, distinguishing it from Pune.
- Implementation of the urban street design project city-wide, despite local opposition in areas like Akurdi and Nigdi over traffic concerns.
Addressing Infrastructure and Development
The manifesto directly tackles infrastructure woes highlighted during last year's monsoon. It promises to examine the feasibility of a water metro service on the Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula rivers as an alternative transport mode. Chief Minister Fadnavis, addressing the rally, highlighted Pimpri Chinchwad's impressive growth trajectory and its top rankings in the Swachh Survekshan, crediting better waste management and technology.
Other notable assurances in the document include:
- A 'water-first' policy for new construction permissions.
- Construction of the Dehu–Alandi Bhakti Corridor.
- Establishment of a Waste to Wealth Technology Park and a Center for Invention, Innovation, Incubation and Training.
- Setting up 'One-Stop Shop' and Special Task Force to help residents access government schemes.
- Introducing mohalla clinics and a free legal assistance scheme.
Resolving Long-Standing Issues
The BJP also addressed critical local issues. The party assured that the state government is actively pursuing the red zone matter with the defence ministry, expecting a positive decision for affected residents within the next few months. Furthermore, acknowledging the problems caused by flood line restrictions, the government is conducting a fresh survey for demarcation of blue and red flood lines across the state to resolve the issue of structures deemed illegal.
This comprehensive manifesto sets a clear agenda for the civic polls, focusing on administrative autonomy, industrial growth, and improved quality of life for Pimpri Chinchwad's residents.
