The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has scrapped the requirement for developers of new housing projects in 23 merged villages and areas outside a 5km radius from civic limits to provide affidavits ensuring water supply. This decision has raised concerns among citizens, fearing it could worsen the water shortage in the region.

In a circular issued, PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase announced the cancellation of the previous mandate, stating that it is now the responsibility of civic bodies to ensure water supply, as per Urban Development Department guidelines.

The annulled order, implemented in August last year, was originally designed to monitor water supply for new constructions. Citizens and NGOs argue that scrapping it could exacerbate the existing water crisis. Lawyer Satya Muley, who represented a public interest litigation (PIL) regarding water shortages, stated that local NGOs are preparing to issue legal notices to challenge this decision, citing concerns over unregulated urban growth without accountability for basic services like water and roads.

According to PMRDA officials, the decision to cancel the affidavit requirement stemmed from developers submitting false affidavits. The responsibility for water supply in the 23 merged villages and surrounding areas lies with local authorities like PMC and PCMC, and no special affidavits are needed if these bodies have committed to provide water.

The new circular applies to 814 villages under PMRDA’s jurisdiction, with the responsibility of water supply for the merged villages falling on PMC. Developers will still need to submit proposals to the engineering department for water supply plans in cases where occupancy certificates were issued based on gram panchayat assurances or developer guarantees.

(TOI)