As Nashik prepares for its crucial Municipal Corporation elections on January 15, the candidates vying for power have laid out their development blueprints. The core issues dominating the electoral discourse revolve around improved basic facilities, a cleaner Godavari river, and focused development in the city's expanding fringe areas.
Vision Statements Highlight Citizen Priorities
These priorities were prominently featured in the mandatory 100-word vision statements submitted by candidates alongside their nomination affidavits. The statements served as a formal pledge, outlining plans for ward-level improvements and the city's overall progress. A total of 735 candidates, including 208 independents, are in the fray for the polls, making the contest a vibrant democratic exercise.
Leaders Outline Specific Ward-Level Agendas
Senior leaders from major political parties have detailed their specific commitments. Ajay Boraste, deputy leader of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, stated his focus would be on fulfilling basic needs like roads and water supply in his jurisdiction. He also pledged to work on the beautification of gardens and libraries and implement schemes for senior citizens.
From the BJP, former NMC standing committee chairman Himgauri Aher, contesting from Ward 7, emphasized keeping the Godavari riverfront plastic-free, especially with the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela in view. Her other promises include establishing quality healthcare, recreational centres for seniors, promoting e-facilities for women to access schemes, supporting youth self-employment for Atmanirbhar Bharat, and improving NMC school education.
Commitment to Transparency and Holistic Development
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Chavan, contesting from Ward 13, committed to providing basic amenities with a transparent, corruption-free administration. His key initiatives involve strengthening roads, resolving water issues, upgrading slum facilities, and promoting fitness centres and anganwadis, aiming to make his ward a progressive model.
Similarly, former corporator and BJP candidate Shahu Khaire pledged a permanent resolution to issues of roads, lighting, drainage, and drinking water. His environmental agenda includes extensive tree plantation, creating jogging tracks, building children's parks, curbing pollution in the Godavari, and setting up modern study centres, coupled with enhanced CCTV surveillance for safety.
The collective vision presented by the candidates underscores a citizen-centric approach, with the upcoming election poised to shape Nashik's infrastructure and environmental landscape for the next term.
