PMC’s decision to clean up only part of Wadale pond upsets locals

NAVI MUMBAI: Although the Panvel Municipal Council (PMC) commenced cleaning the Wadale pond on September 5 for the immersion of Ganesha idols, residents remain unhappy about the civic body not cleaning up the entire 30 acre water body.
“The civic body’s lethargy has resulted in the pathetic condition of the pond. PMC must beautify the historical pond.However, it is only cleaning a certain area where the immersion process was proposed,” said Kunal Mhatre, a resident.
Sanjay Khatekar, a civic official, said that the work is meant to ensure the smooth immersion of Ganesh idols during the 10-day festival. “We expect around 5,000 households to immerse the Ganpati idols in the pond. We have undertaken the cleaning of the pond in the area where immersion is proposed. Weeds are being removed and the desilting process is on. The work will be completed in a day or two,” he added.
PMC has submitted a Rs 68 crore plan to the urban development department for the beautification of the pond. “Since PMC has no sufficient funds to meet the expenses, plans are afoot to accomplish the project under Build Operate and Transfer scheme. We expect the approval at any moment,” said Khatekar.
Built in the 18th century by the Peshwa ruler Chimaji Appa, Wadale pond has been a source of drinking water since the pre-independence period. However, the pond has turned into a dumpling ground for construction debris and waste from the neighbourhood, residents said.