Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a concluding rally in Pune on Tuesday ahead of the Pune Municipal Corporation elections scheduled for January 15. He announced that the Bharatiya Janata Party is crafting a holistic development plan for the city spanning the next two decades.
Massive Infrastructure Projects Highlighted
Fadnavis claimed that approximately 220 projects valued at Rs35,000 crore have been completed in Pune during BJP's tenure. He revealed that a ready plan exists to undertake projects worth Rs44,000 crore over the next five years. These initiatives will focus on critical areas like water supply, garbage management, redevelopment, and housing.
The rally took place in the Gokhalenagar-Shivajinagar area. State cabinet minister Chandrakant Patil, city MP Muralidhar Mohol, and local BJP candidates attended the event. Fadnavis explained that organizers selected this venue because the area has consistently supported the BJP. He expressed confidence that other regions would offer similar backing due to the party's development-focused agenda.
Criticism of Previous Administrations
Fadnavis criticized earlier PMC administrations for executing projects without proper planning. He cited the example of a bridge at University Chowk that required demolition because it failed to account for future development needs. The Chief Minister emphasized that BJP does not believe in such haphazard work. Instead, the party is formulating comprehensive plans for Pune's growth.
Fadnavis stated that local elections should serve to develop leaders for the city. He alleged that some individuals view civic elections merely as opportunities to create local strongmen. The Chief Minister urged voters to take these polls seriously.
Digital Transformation and Transportation Upgrades
Fadnavis elaborated on BJP's development agenda, highlighting that Pune and its surrounding areas are undergoing significant digital transformation. He noted that people from about ninety different countries currently work in industries around Pune.
The Chief Minister listed numerous transportation projects. Bridges worth Rs277 crore have already been constructed. BJP introduced various projects to enhance overall transportation. The Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar Metro line will inaugurate this year following recent preliminary trials. Plans include establishing a Metro network covering 110 kilometers.
Authorities proposed twenty-three flyovers. A plan is being prepared to decongest thirty-two key roads. Tunnels are proposed to connect different city areas, thereby improving daily commutes.
Assurances and the Ladki Bahin Scheme
Without naming Ajit Pawar specifically, Fadnavis commented that some people make assurances without considering how to fulfill them. He contrasted this approach by stating that BJP delivers on its promises. Fadnavis referenced the Ladki Bahin scheme, asserting that it remains operational and will not be discontinued.
Comments on Alliance Dynamics
Fadnavis addressed the political situation in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad. He clarified that BJP and the Nationalist Congress Party are not contesting together in these areas. Friendly fights will occur, and Mahayuti members agreed not to criticize each other. Fadnavis claimed that BJP adhered to this decision until the end, but Ajit Pawar did not follow it. He expressed uncertainty about Pawar's reasons for this deviation.
Symbolic Voting Advice
Referring to NCP's symbol without directly naming the party, Fadnavis offered voters unique advice. He suggested that people use an alarm clock to wake up on polling day but leave the clock at home. Voters should proceed to polling stations to vote for the lotus, BJP's symbol. Fadnavis promised that if citizens vote for the lotus, BJP will take care of them for the next five years.
