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Uncertainty looms over Pune's municipal town planning scheme following area demerger

Following the recent demerger of Uruli-Phursungi from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the future of the city's town planning scheme is in a state of uncertainty. Town planning experts predict significant challenges for the newly formed municipal council, tasked with overseeing these areas, due to a shortage of resources, expertise, and infrastructure.

The demerger mandates the transfer of project authority from the PMC to the new municipal council. However, experts suggest that the council might struggle to effectively implement the scheme. This particular town planning project, launched in these areas, was the first significant scheme executed by the PMC in over three decades.

The initiative's original objective was the planned development of about 371 hectares, divided between Uruli-Devachi with 110 hectares and Phursungi with 261 hectares.

According to civic officials, an arbitrator has been appointed to address issues raised by citizens concerning land distribution and other aspects related to the town planning scheme. The process of allocating plots to farmers impacted by the scheme is nearing its final stages.

In December 2022, the state government announced the planned demerger of these two areas, with an official notification issued in March 2023. However, the establishment of the council is still incomplete, and the necessary manpower is yet to be allocated. The lack of adequate funding is another issue flagged by local residents.

Senior urban planner Ramchandra Gohad expressed concern over the delay in town planning projects, especially in a rapidly growing city like Pune. He emphasized that the council's lack of expertise could detrimentally impact the project's future. Gohad suggested that other government bodies, such as the town planning department, should step in to expedite the scheme.

In conclusion the demerger of Uruli-Phursungi from the PMC has thrown the future of the town planning scheme into uncertainty. Experts suggest that the newly formed municipal council may struggle due to a lack of resources and expertise, potentially hindering urban planning progress in these rapidly developing areas. It is imperative for other government bodies to offer support, ensuring the seamless continuation of this significant scheme.

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