PMC's GPS Mapping Project to Protect Civic Properties Falls Behind
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been struggling to complete its ambitious project to map its 3,000 properties using GPS, which could help prevent misuse and encroachment. Despite the project being initiated in 2021-22, progress has been slow, raising concerns among activists and residents.
PuneGps MappingPmcCivic PropertiesMisuseReal Estate PuneAug 31, 2025
The idea for the GPS mapping project was first proposed in 2021-22 when a municipal community hall was discovered to be used for weddings by a former corporator. Following this incident, a tender was awarded to a contractor to begin the mapping process. However, the project seems to have been delayed, and activists are now questioning its progress.
Vijay Kumbhar, a member of the Surajya Sangharsh Samiti, a citizens' group, expressed his frustration with the slow progress. 'The project has not yielded the expected results and appears to have been put on the back burner. The civic body is now conducting a similar exercise, which is concerning,' Kumbhar said.
Vasundhara Barve, the head of the PMC's estate department, acknowledged the importance of the project and stated that the groundwork to map the civic properties began around six months ago. 'The project is crucial for us, and the administration has expanded its scope,' Barve emphasized.
Activists and residents have highlighted that the misuse of PMC properties could have been better controlled if the information was readily available. Issues such as outdated contracts with occupants and unauthorized possession are leading to a significant loss of revenue. They urge the administration to be more vigilant about its assets to ensure better use of taxpayers' money.
Kumbhar further criticized the civic body for conducting only superficial inspections and audits of its properties. 'This exercise has been declared and carried out multiple times over the past decade, yet the PMC still lacks accurate records. Some civic officials are also reluctant to use these properties for the greater public good, as they provide illegal income,' Kumbhar added.
Anil Gharat, a social activist, echoed similar concerns. 'Former elected representatives have taken over civic buildings at key locations and are running their offices from them. The administration must take a comprehensive look at all municipal properties to address these issues,' Gharat said.
PMC officials have reiterated that there are strict rules and regulations for allocating municipal spaces. According to the norms, properties should be given on rent for up to 30 years only after issuing tenders, and the base price should be the ready reckoner rate. Since the 2021-22 incident, several cases have come to light where civic officials, in association with local elected members, allegedly misused these assets.
The PMC has committed to scrutinizing the shortcomings in the tender awarded to the contractor five years ago. The civic properties under the PMC's jurisdiction include civic buildings, open land parcels, schools, parks, administrative offices, public utility halls, and municipal hospitals. The successful completion of the GPS mapping project could significantly enhance the administration's ability to manage and protect these valuable assets effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the GPS mapping project by the PMC?
The purpose of the GPS mapping project by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is to map its 3,000 properties to protect them from encroachment and misuse. This project aims to ensure better management and utilization of civic assets.
When was the GPS mapping project initiated?
The GPS mapping project was initiated in 2021-22 after a municipal community hall was found to be used for weddings by a former corporator.
What are the main concerns raised by activists and residents?
Activists and residents are concerned about the slow progress of the project, the misuse of civic properties, outdated contracts with occupants, and unauthorized possession, which lead to a loss of revenue.
What are the rules and regulations for allocating municipal spaces?
According to the norms, municipal properties should be given on rent for up to 30 years only after issuing tenders, and the base price should be the ready reckoner rate.
What types of properties does the PMC manage?
The PMC manages a variety of properties, including civic buildings, open land parcels, schools, parks, administrative offices, public utility halls, and municipal hospitals.
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