Pune: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, while addressing residents of Wadgaon Sheri and Viman Nagar during his Jan Sanman Yatra on August 15, telephoned Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale and ordered urgent action on the stray dog menace and other civic issues in the area.

The meeting brought together housing society officials and social organization representatives who voiced concerns over traffic congestion, sanitation problems, stray dog attacks, street vendor encroachments, and women's safety.

Pawar listened attentively to the citizens' grievances and immediately contacted Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, urging him to implement swift and effective solutions.

Among the concerns highlighted was the severe problem of stray dogs, which has led to multiple incidents of injuries, particularly to children. While some residents expressed a desire to curb the menace, others, who are dog lovers, argued for a balanced approach. Pawar suggested that the PMC utilize Mundhwa sterilization facility and housing of stray dogs to address both sides of the issue.

Footpath encroachments and irregular garbage collection were also brought to the fore, with citizens expressing frustration over delayed responses to their complaints.

Pawar proposed replicating a system he had implemented in Pimpri-Chinchwad, where dedicated phone numbers were assigned to each area, allowing residents to report issues that could be resolved within hours. He urged for the adoption of a similar model in Pune to ensure quicker resolution of complaints.

MLA Sunil Tingre, present at the meeting, committed to conducting follow-up meetings with key officials to address these issues. Pawar emphasized the need for action, noting that while 5% of residents may remain dissatisfied, the goal should be to satisfy the remaining 95%.

Addressing the traffic congestion in the area, Pawar pointed out that while the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system had been partially removed, he believed it should be dismantled completely to ease traffic flow.

"The issues raised by the citizens are serious and require immediate attention," Pawar asserted, directing PMC officials to resolve them within four to five days.