Pune District Collector Asks PMC To Submit Report On ‘No Water, No Vote’ Banners in Khairewadi Slum

In response to banners displayed by residents of Khairewadi slum in Shivajinagar, which read ‘no water, no vote’, the Pune district collector has called for a report from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) regarding the water scarcity issue. Situated across 16,349 square meters in the Shivajinagar area, Khairewadi slum accommodates 476 authorized residents, according to the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA). Last week, these residents expressed their frustration with inadequate water supply by hanging banners conveying their message.

The water supply problems in Khairewadi, as cited by PMC officials, stem from technical issues hindering the completion of a water supply pipeline intended to connect the area with an overhead tank near the Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU).
PMC authorities highlight that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has emphasized the necessity of increasing voter turnout, prompting local administrations to raise awareness. With Lok Sabha elections currently ongoing, the district collector has taken note of the ‘no water, no vote’ banners, recognizing the potential impact on voter participation in Khairewadi, where over 2,000 voters reside.

In light of these concerns, the Pune district collector has requested a comprehensive report from the PMC to swiftly address the water scarcity issue in Khairewadi and ensure the smooth conduct of elections.