Pune: PMC Issues Ultimatum To Consultant For Katraj-Kondhwa Project Hurdles
Katraj, 15th February 2024: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a show-cause notice to the consultant responsible for the Katraj-Kondhwa road project, citing delays in submitting a plan for the management of service lines. These service lines, encompassing water supply pipes and cables, require relocation to facilitate the construction of a grade separator as part of the ongoing project.
Vikas Dhakane, Additional Commissioner of PMC, expressed concern over the consultant’s failure to deliver the required plan despite repeated requests. This delay is adversely affecting the progress of the project. Dhakane warned, “If the consultant’s response is deemed unsatisfactory, the administration may consider blacklisting them.”
Activists have raised concerns about the excessive reliance on consultants for civic projects, arguing that it hampers the corporation’s independent functioning. As part of the project, PMC has widened a stretch of road at Khadi Machine Chowk to alleviate traffic congestion. The widening has created two lanes from Kanha restaurant to Khadi Machine Chowk, contributing to improved traffic management on Katraj-Kondhwa road.
Vivek Velankar, representing Sajag Nagrik Manch, a citizens’ group, questioned the need for consultants in almost every municipal project when PMC already has qualified engineers. The PMC has utilized approximately Rs 48 crore from public funds for the road project thus far.
