‘We Oppose PCMC Merger’: NCP MLA Takes Stand Against CM Fadnavis’ Proposal
- Mandekar Backs Hinjewadi Villagers, Says Local Residents Oppose Merger of Seven Villages With PCMC
Pune : The Maharashtra government’s proposal to merge seven rapidly developing villages around Hinjewadi with the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has triggered opposition from local residents, with MLA Shankar Mandekar backing the demand against the proposed inclusion. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had recently said that Hinjewadi, Maan, Marunji, Jambhe, Nere, Sangawade and Gahunje would be brought under the PCMC for planned development.
Mandekar said local residents are opposed to the merger and made it clear that his position would remain aligned with their demand. He said he would present the residents’ concerns before the Chief Minister and the state government, while keeping open the possibility of a separate municipal corporation or an independent development authority for the Hinjewadi region in the future.
The issue gained momentum as large numbers of IT professionals, local residents and youngsters participated in a silent march demanding sustainable development of Hinjewadi, Maan, Marunji and adjoining rural areas of Mulshi taluka. Mandekar attended the protest and extended his support to the participants.
Taking aim at the government’s development approach, Mandekar questioned how a global IT hub such as Hinjewadi could continue to struggle with narrow roads, inadequate water supply and poor waste management. He said rapid urbanisation without corresponding basic infrastructure has created serious challenges for residents and commuters.
Mandekar said he had previously raised these issues in the legislature and with the government and would continue to pursue them aggressively. He also called for coordinated planning between urban and rural areas to ensure that the region’s development does not come at the cost of basic civic facilities.
