Pune Municipal Corporation Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale has issued new directives altering the powers associated with the roles of Additional Commissioners, just as two out of three such posts remain vacant.
This move has triggered discussions within official circles, but the Commissioner has put an end to speculations by confirming that two new Additional Commissioners will soon be appointed.
These changes are intended to bring greater efficiency and coordination in managing projects and daily tasks within the Corporation.
The three positions of Additional Commissioners—General, Estate, and Special—play a crucial role in overseeing various departments within the Pune Municipal Corporation.
Currently, only Prithviraj B.P. holds the Additional Commissioner (Estate) position, while the other two posts are vacant following the transfers of Ravindra Binwade and Vikas Dhakne.
The vacant roles have temporarily increased the workload on Prithviraj B.P., who has been assigned additional responsibilities for the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and JICA projects, alongside limited duties in the construction department.
Commissioner Bhosale clarified that these changes are part of a broader plan to accelerate decision-making within the Corporation, especially in long-term projects like drainage, river improvement, and water supply, which previously saw responsibilities split between two Additional Commissioners.
The upcoming appointments and reorganization aim to enhance efficiency and streamline the administrative processes.
In a related development, the Municipal Corporation will also establish a dedicated Flying Squad to address citywide encroachments. This squad will have the authority to remove encroachments and hold zonal officers accountable for any unauthorized developments in their areas.
The initiative reflects the Corporation's focus on curbing illegal activities and maintaining urban order.