In a significant pre-poll promise, the Congress party has pledged to provide free travel for women on buses run by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). This announcement, seen as a counter to the BJP's earlier promise of concessional tickets, was made during the unveiling of the party's civic election manifesto titled 'Pune First'.
Key Promises for Public Transport and Infrastructure
Former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan presented the manifesto on Thursday, outlining a vision focused on resolving Pune's chronic issues. The cornerstone promise is an efficient and affordable public transport system. Beyond free bus travel for women, the Congress plans to develop an efficient feeder bus service to integrate with the upcoming Pune Metro, aiming to provide seamless last-mile connectivity.
Chavan emphasized that improving road infrastructure is a top priority to tackle the city's serious traffic congestion. The party vows to strategically address these mobility challenges to ease the daily commute for Punekars.
Tackling Civic Issues: Waste, Pollution, and Crime
The manifesto dedicates substantial focus to pressing civic problems. On the intensifying garbage issue, Chavan stated the party will draw up a ward-level strategy for waste processing. This decentralized approach aims for more effective management of the city's solid waste.
Addressing environmental concerns, the Congress promises to tackle air pollution effectively and increase the city's green cover. On the law and order front, Chavan expressed concern over increasing crime in Pune. The party pledges to strictly tackle the drug menace and initiate programs to train senior citizens, helping them avoid falling victim to cyber crime.
Education, Taxation, and Tourism Focus
The Congress's plan for Pune also includes upgrading civic-run schools with modern facilities and introducing digital education across all PMC schools. In a move aimed at providing relief to smaller homeowners, the party has promised no property tax on residential properties with an area of less than 500 square feet.
Furthermore, the manifesto includes plans to promote Pune's tourism industry, recognizing its potential for economic and cultural growth. These promises collectively form the 'Pune First' agenda that the Congress will take to the electorate in the upcoming PMC elections.
