MLA criticizes Pune for missing records and infrastructure

Bhimrao Tapkir, a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), spoke in the state assembly on Wednesday about issues in Pune. He criticized the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for poor infrastructure in 34 villages that were recently merged into the city. Tapkir accused the PMC of collecting taxes from these areas without providing the necessary services in return. He pointed out that while the corporation collects funds, it fails to enhance the living conditions of the residents. He demanded that the PMC should be transparent about the tax amounts collected and what infrastructure has been built. Additionally, Tapkir raised concerns about missing Gunthewari records. He alleged that important documents related to development proposals had been misplaced, suggesting that this mishandling might be intentional to allow illegal buildings. He urged the state government to investigate the officials involved. A PMC official responded that the corporation is indeed working to improve infrastructure in these merged villages. They acknowledged that it takes time for land acquisition and the installation of essential services like roads, water, and drainage, but stated that funds are being allocated to these areas, often exceeding the tax revenue collected.