Balewadi Welfare Federation unveils civic roadmap for Pune’s Prabhag 9

Community Demands for Urban Improvements in Balewadi

Priority demands include a reliable water supply and a strong drainage system. These improvements aim to reduce reliance on water tankers and prevent flooding. Other requests are better roads, traffic management, pedestrian safety, and expanded public transport. The community also seeks essential public amenities like a Bhaji Mandai, a garden near Moze College, a petrol pump, and a power substation.

Additionally, the document calls for improved cleanliness and waste management systems. It also emphasizes air pollution control, better healthcare services including mohalla clinics, and enhanced animal welfare facilities. Preservation of green spaces like Ram Mula Devrai and stricter environmental safeguards are also highlighted.

Safety and Governance Initiatives

Safety and governance are key aspects of the roadmap. There are demands for better street lighting, CCTV coverage, and emergency helplines. The removal of encroachments and coordinated civic works are also necessary. BWF stresses the need for transparency and accountability to ensure that citizens’ taxes lead to visible outcomes and long-term urban planning solutions.

BWF Chairman Ramesh Rokade stated that the federation acts as a bridge between residents and authorities. He urged citizens to join BWF’s Community Outreach Programme to help shape Balewadi’s future.

Secretary Ashish Kotamkar mentioned that the manifesto has been shared with all Pune Municipal Corporation election candidates from Prabhag 9. This clearly communicates citizens’ expectations and emphasizes accountability.

Candidate Engagement and Transparency

To enhance transparency, BWF invited all candidates from Prabhag 9 to submit short video statements. These videos should outline their vision and commitment to the listed demands. This initiative is part of the *“Your Voice, Their Commitment”* campaign. The videos will be shared across citizen groups and social media to help voters make informed choices. The federation clarified that it does not endorse any political party or candidate and focuses solely on civic progress.

Specific Concerns from BWF Members

BWF working committee members highlighted specific issues. Sunil Galankar emphasized the need for a 220 KV power substation to ensure uninterrupted electricity and reduce traffic congestion in Baner and Balewadi. Yogendra Singh urged authorities to create a public park near Aditya Breeze Park and implement strict dust pollution control measures. He also called for regulating heavy construction vehicle movement along the Dasra Chowk–Aditya Breeze Park stretch.

Vandana Chaudhary expressed hope that elected representatives would act quickly on pressing civic issues. These include traffic signals, road connectivity to highways, sewage seepage, waste management, and enhancing green cover. She also called for defunct Smart City projects to be made operational, stating that Baner–Balewadi has faced years of neglect and urgently needs accountability and visible action.