Road and Water Issues in Ward 9 to Be Taken Up on Priority, Assures Amol Balwadkar After Citizen Survey
Survey by Citizen Groups Sparks Development Dialogue in Baner-Balewadi-Pashan; Key Issues Headed for Action
Baner 11 January: Amol Balwadkar from Ward 9 said it was encouraging to see active civic participation from Baner-Balewadi residents after two local citizen platforms conducted a detailed public survey on development priorities in the area.
The Baner-Balewadi Citizens Forum and Baner-Balewadi-Pashan Residents Association jointly carried out the exercise. Both groups have been consistently engaging with the administration and elected representatives on local issues. The survey received responses from more than 6,500 residents, which Balwadkar described as a promising sign of awareness and involvement.
The questionnaire focused on ongoing works, expectations of citizens, and the priorities residents want future representatives to address. Balwadkar said this survey represented a constructive model of how vigilant citizens help shape sustainable local development. Several points raised by residents have been included in his performance report, which he refers to as Janahitanama, and will form part of his development vision.
One of the major topics discussed by citizens was the Balewadi-Wakad Road. Balwadkar said he held direct talks with Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and expressed confidence that work on the road would begin within the next two months. He added that an alternate traffic plan would be put in place to avoid congestion once the road opens.
Pollution caused by large-scale construction in the area was another key issue. Balwadkar assured strict action against builders flouting Unified DC Rules and said a separate campaign would be launched for enforcement.
On water supply concerns, he said a dedicated plan would be rolled out to address shortages in newly added areas such as Sus and Mahalunge. The remaining ten percent of Baner-Balewadi households currently facing water gaps are also expected to be covered.
Footpath difficulties faced by senior citizens would be resolved on priority, he said. Balwadkar also shared that a proposal is being pursued to develop a modern theatre on a 2.5-acre plot in the Balewadi area.
