Table of Contents
📍 Introduction
Residents of Wagholi, one of Pune’s rapidly growing suburbs, have announced a hunger strike on June 15, 2025, to protest the long-standing and unresolved drainage problems in their locality. Frustrated by years of negligence and broken promises, locals have decided to intensify their fight for basic infrastructure by calling for immediate intervention from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Organizers estimate that over 300 residents, including senior citizens, youth groups, and families from various housing societies, are expected to participate in the strike, emphasizing the scale and urgency of the issue.
🚧 What’s the Issue?
Wagholi residents have been grappling with poor drainage infrastructure for over a decade. Overflowing sewage, waterlogging during monsoons, and foul odours have become part of everyday life. Despite repeated complaints and representations, meaningful progress remains elusive. The issue worsens during the rainy season, raising serious health and sanitation concerns.
🗣️ Residents Speak
Residents allege that despite Wagholi’s inclusion under PMC limits in recent years, basic civic amenities have not improved. A local resident, Ramesh Patil, stated, “We pay taxes, but get zero services. We are forced to live in unhygienic conditions. This hunger strike is our last resort.”
Housing societies, senior citizens, and young professionals are uniting for the protest. Many say they will join the peaceful strike outside the PMC zonal office until clear timelines for the drainage network are shared. Among the supporters is 68-year-old Shantabai Joshi, who shared, “I’ve lived here for over 30 years, and we’ve never faced such neglect.” Meanwhile, youth volunteer Ayaan Shaikh, 23, emphasized, “We need to show unity across all age groups to demand accountability.”
🏢 What PMC Has Said So Far
According to earlier statements, PMC had floated tenders for drainage upgrades in 2023, but residents claim little on-ground work has taken place. Civic officials have cited budgetary delays and contractor issues, but these explanations have failed to satisfy the community.
With increasing public pressure, PMC is expected to respond more proactively in the coming days. Tenders for drainage upgrades were reportedly floated in mid-2023, but on-ground progress remains minimal. Residents point out that no official statement has been issued by the PMC regarding the delay, further fueling frustration and calls for transparency. A timeline of expected action is still awaited.
🔍 Why This Matters
- Public Health: Poor drainage leads to mosquito breeding and risk of waterborne diseases.
- Civic Accountability: Ensures elected officials and civic bodies are held responsible.
- Urban Planning Gap: Highlights the disconnect between rapid urbanization and infrastructure readiness. For example, areas like Undri and Hinjawadi have also reported delayed drainage projects and lack of basic amenities despite being rapidly developing zones. This pattern underscores a broader failure in anticipating and accommodating the needs of expanding suburbs.
📢 What’s Next?
The hunger strike will begin on Saturday, June 15 at 10:00 AM outside the PMC zonal office in Wagholi. Organizers plan to continue until an official assurance is provided.
Residents have also launched a social media campaign with the hashtag #DrainTheNeglect, urging more citizens to raise their voices and share images of the situation. Local NGOs such as Pune Water Watch and activist groups have pledged support, while regional politicians from Wagholi and nearby areas are expected to make appearances. Some local media outlets, including Pune Mirror and CityBeat, are reportedly planning to cover the event live.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Why are Wagholi residents going on a hunger strike?
They are protesting the lack of drainage infrastructure and sanitation issues in the area.
Q2. When is the hunger strike planned?
It is scheduled for June 15, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM.
Q3. Where will the hunger strike be held?
Outside the PMC zonal office in Wagholi.
Q4. Who is participating in the strike?
Local residents, housing society members, and community leaders.
Q5. Has PMC responded yet?
As of now, there has been no official response to the June 15 protest announcement.
Q6. What are the main demands?
Timely completion of drainage projects and immediate sanitation relief.
Q7. How can others support the protest?
Through social media using #DrainTheNeglect or joining the peaceful demonstration.
Q8. What are the health risks due to drainage issues?
Risks include mosquito-borne diseases, skin infections, and general public health deterioration.
Q9. Was Wagholi always under PMC?
No, it was included under PMC jurisdiction in recent years.
Q10. What has been done about drainage so far?
Tenders were floated in 2023, but residents say work has barely started.
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