Panvel: Frustrated by persistent civic problems in the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) area, Congress Party members staged a sit-in near the civic office on Tuesday, demanding immediate action from the administration. The protest was led by Panvel City District Congress Committee President Sudam Patil and attended by Maharashtra State Congress Vice President Cdr SH Kalawat, along with other party office-bearers and activists.
The protesters accused the PMC administration of negligence in addressing critical issues affecting residents. A key concern raised was the inadequate water supply to areas such as Kharghar, Kalamboli, Kamothe, Taloja, Khanda Colony, and New Panvel. They questioned the civic body’s failure to release adequate water and demanded urgent corrective measures.
Congress leaders also criticized the poor state of roads and drainage systems, calling for an impartial inquiry into substandard work and action against contractors responsible for the deteriorating infrastructure.
Another major issue highlighted was the long-standing controversy over enhanced property tax. Despite repeated protests, residents have seen no resolution. Congress demanded a joint meeting with the Chief Minister and the Urban Development Minister to find a permanent solution.
Employment concerns were also raised, with party members expressing frustration over local residents being overlooked in job recruitments. They insisted that Panvel residents should be given priority in hiring to improve employment opportunities for the local population.
The protest further criticized the municipal budget for its inadequate provisions for women’s welfare, education, and healthcare. Congress leaders urged the administration to allocate more funds to these critical sectors. They also called for the effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Gharkul Awas Yojana, advocating for an approach similar to the Slum Rehabilitation Authority scheme to ensure affordable housing for the underprivileged.
Additionally, the party demanded better employment opportunities for disabled individuals within the Panvel Municipal Corporation area, emphasizing the need for inclusive hiring policies.
Congress leaders warned that if these issues remain unaddressed, they would intensify their protests. They urged the administration to take swift action to resolve residents’ grievances and improve living conditions in Panvel.
