Vikram Kumar, Pune Municipal Commissioner completes two years in office

The Pune Municipal Corporation completed two years under the leadership of Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar, following the conclusion of the corporators’ tenure on March 14, 2022. During this period, the administration assumed responsibility for civic affairs, tackling various challenges in the absence of elected members. 

“There were challenges, but despite the absence of elected members, the administration worked hard to serve citizens. It is true that in the absence of elected members, we were unable to take policy decisions but tried to finish many long-pending projects,” he said.

Commissioner Kumar emphasized the completion of significant projects as a priority over the past 24 months. Notable among scheme and sewage management projects, aided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s support for river rejuvenation and riverfront development. 

However, he acknowledged the limitations of making major policy decisions without elected representatives. Despite the absence of elected members, the administration served the citizens, he claimed. He further highlighted the pros and cons of operating without the general body and standing committee meetings. While decision-making gained speed, the comprehensive discussion of topics suffered. 

“There were challenges, but despite the absence of elected members, the administration worked hard to serve citizens. It is true that in the absence of elected members, we were unable to take policy decisions but tried to finish many long-pending projects,” he said.

Moreover, facing financial constraints, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) worked hard to manage spending with limited revenue. However, several residents said that the civic body has been inefficient in the past two years. The residents faced several issues, viz., garbage issues, water supply issues, public urination issues, road issues, etc., and despite complaints, no action was taken. 

One resident said, “I have complained to the PMC ward and supervisor several times, but no action has been taken yet, and the garbage issue continues to grow.” Many more such complaints were made.