Residents of Pune's prominent Deccan Gymkhana area have taken a decisive step towards shaping their neighbourhood's future. The Deccan Gymkhana Parisar Samiti (DGPS), representing citizens from Ward numbers 12 and 29, has released a comprehensive citizens' manifesto. This document places long-term liveability and continuous civic accountability at the very heart of urban governance in the city.
Core Demands: Water, Sewage, and Green Lungs
The manifesto, born from daily civic experiences, outlines a clear set of priorities. Topping the list is a reliable and equitable water supply for all residents. The DGPS has called for the strict enforcement of rainwater harvesting rules and an immediate ban on using precious potable water for construction activities. Residents argue that unchecked construction projects are placing an unsustainable burden on Pune's limited water resources, making strict regulation an absolute necessity.
Another critical issue addressed is drainage and sewage management. The group has urged the Pune Municipal Corporation to ensure 100% sewage treatment and completely halt the discharge of untreated waste into natural water bodies. The manifesto warns that the city's inadequate drainage and poorly maintained underground infrastructure pose severe public health risks, potentially leading to urban flooding disasters similar to those witnessed in other Indian metros.
Protecting Ecology and Public Health
The protection and enhancement of Pune's green cover form a fundamental pillar of the residents' demands. The DGPS is demanding strict safeguards against tree loss, better maintenance of existing open spaces, and proactive efforts to increase greenery. The group highlighted the ecological role of the hills and green patches in Deccan Gymkhana, describing them as vital 'green lungs' that help mitigate air pollution and combat rising urban temperatures.
Solid waste management was also flagged as a major concern. The manifesto links problems like untreated sewage, pervasive construction dust, inefficient waste segregation at source, and growing traffic pollution. It states that these are interlinked issues that directly and negatively impact the health and overall quality of life for every resident in the area.
A Call for Consistent Action, Not Grand Promises
The manifesto moves beyond a simple list of complaints, framing itself as a blueprint for actionable governance. DGPS member Bahar Tepan explained that the document reflects the daily, grinding civic issues residents face—problems that may not be dramatic but are deeply corrosive over time. Another member, Sumita Kale, emphasized the pragmatic nature of their demands.
"We are not asking for grand promises or unrealistic projects," Kale stated. "What we want is consistent action, complete transparency, and genuine accountability from our civic authorities. These are the elements that will make our neighbourhoods truly liveable for the long term." The release of this detailed manifesto signals a growing demand from citizens for a more collaborative, responsive, and sustainable model of urban development in Pune.
