Pune: Following a visit by Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar to the flood-affected areas of Narveer Tanaji Malusare Road (Sinhagad Road) and subsequent complaints from residents, a municipal official faced severe repercussions for neglecting cleanliness.
PMC Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale took serious note of the issue and suspended the regional officer of the Sinhagad Road area on Saturday (July 27).
Assistant Commissioner Sandeep Khalate of the Sinhagad Road Ward Office has been suspended as per the orders of Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, confirmed by Deputy Commissioner Pratibha Patil.
The flooding occurred on Thursday morning due to a large water release from Khadakwasla Dam, affecting the Sinhagad Road area and the banks of the Mutha River.
Floodwaters significantly impacted residents along the riverbanks, inundating societies, homes, shops, and markets. An inspection of the area found large amounts of garbage, mud, and silt in the flood-affected areas of Ekta Nagari, Nimbojenagar, and Vitthalnagar, with no cleaning efforts undertaken.
Drinking water tanks were also contaminated with floodwater, causing major inconvenience to residents. Citizens had previously complained to mediapersons about the inadequate response by the municipal administration.
During his inspection of Vitthalnagar, Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale also noted significant amounts of mud, silt, garbage, and unclean conditions in the flood-affected areas.
These areas fall under the jurisdiction of the Sinhagad Road Regional Office, headed by Assistant Commissioner Sandeep Khalate. The officer was expected to take immediate action following residents' complaints.
Commissioner Dr. Bhosale held Khalate accountable for the negligence and suspended him for dereliction of duty.
