Puneites happy but expect better infra

Puneites happy but expect better infra

Pune: The Union government has declared Pune as the most liveable city in the country. Three cities of Maharashtra – Pune, Navi Mumbai and Greater Mumbai – have secured a place among the most livable places in the country. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs released an ‘Ease of Living Index – 2018’ on Monday. Prominent faces in the city expressed happiness with the result but said that more needs to be done to improve infrastructure. 

The Union ministry evaluated cities on a 100-point scale across 78 indicators - institutional and social pillars carried 25 points each, 5 points were given for the economic pillar and 45 points for the physical pillar.  

While speaking to Sakal Times, Ramchandra Gohad, former town planner of the State government, said, “The city is better in infrastructure as compared to other cities. Metro is another aspect which will help in better transportation. The city is well planned as compared to other cities in Maharashtra. Smart City is another component which has made the city a more livable one. But the city has potential to do much on the infrastructure level.” 

Meeran Borwankar, retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, said, “It is a very beautiful and scenic city. There is a good climate. Citizens are aware of their rights and conscious of their duties. The best part is its gender friendliness and energy of young students. The downside is that it is becoming a concrete jungle with chaotic traffic. The regular and meaningful partnership between citizens and administration can improve the city further.” 

Dr Vasudev Gade, former Vice-Chancellor of Savitribai Pune Phule University, said, “Pune is an educational hub. We are much ahead compared to other cities in India. In quality of education as compared to national and international standards, more needs to be done. Students prefer Pune city because of living standard, employment generation and pleasant environment.” 

Satish Magar, National President, CREDAI (Confederation of Real Estate Developers Association of India), said, “The city should have to improve infrastructure. Other than infrastructure, culture, education, employment, service are plus points which made Pune the most livable city in the country.” 

Dr Abhijit Vaidya, city-based physician and cardiologist and Founder President of Arogya Sena, said, “It is another gimmick of the Central government to announce Pune as the most livable city in the country. I was born and brought up in Pune. The city has expanded but the health of the city and public health system has not improved. The number of private hospitals has increased and they are providing world-class facilities. 

However, a major portion of the population doesn’t get basic health services. For the last 15 years, contagious diseases have increased such as SARS, swine flu and dengue. The city is struggling to solve garbage, pollution, traffic problem. On this scenario, if we are considering it is the most livable city, the government should have to introspect.”

Enjoyed reading The Bridge Chronicle?
Your support motivates us to do better. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay updated with the latest stories.
You can also read on the go with our Android and iOS mobile app.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
The Bridge Chronicle
www.thebridgechronicle.com