BJP leaders in Pimpri-Chinchwad have made a clear statement about water supply and development plans. They say daily water supply is not possible right now. Instead, they promise to provide water every other day with full pressure.
Water Supply Challenges and Solutions
Shatrughan Kate, the BJP president for Pimpri-Chinchwad, spoke at a press conference on Sunday. He explained the situation. "It will not be possible to provide daily water supply," Kate said. "But we will ensure the alternate day water supply is down with full pressure."
Kate highlighted the city's growing population. Pimpri-Chinchwad currently has about 35 lakh people. This number is expected to increase in the next ten years. Water scarcity could become a serious issue.
During the BJP's previous term from 2017 to 2022, they secured additional water sources. They got approval to lift more water from Andra and Bhama Askhed dams. Before that, the city relied on just one water source for many years.
Development Plan Will Not Be Scrapped
Kate also addressed the development plan. He confirmed that the BJP will not scrap it. "By scrapping the development plan, we cannot achieve development," he stated. The party plans to discuss the plan in the PCMC house. They will take corrective steps where there are objections.
This stance contrasts with promises made by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during the election campaign. Pawar had said his party would scrap the development plan if they came to power. He cited around 50,000 objections to the draft plan. One controversial proposal involved a slaughterhouse near the temple town of Alandi.
Election Results and Future Plans
The BJP recently won 85 seats in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation elections. This is an increase from 78 seats in the 2017 elections. Kate expressed satisfaction with the results. He had predicted over 80 seats based on party analysis.
Kate attributed the victory to the BJP's development agenda. "If we had not implemented a slew of development projects and welfare projects of the Central and State government, we would not have won this kind of landslide victory," he said.
He also mentioned that cross-voting did not affect the party significantly. However, in some panels, candidates did not agree with each other. Kate emphasized that candidates joined the BJP voluntarily due to its popularity.
Response to Allegations
When asked about allegations made by Ajit Pawar, Kate said the BJP will probe them. He noted that most allegations were election-related and lacked substantial proof. "During election time, the opposition makes such wild charges," he remarked.
Looking ahead, Kate promised all-round development for Pimpri-Chinchwad. The BJP aims to work with all corporators to achieve this goal. The focus remains on sustainable growth and addressing citizen needs.