Development work stalled in the Administrator’s rule in Pimpri-Chinchwad; 37 pc of allocated money spent, Rs 900 crore remains unspent
Pimpri: It has become clear that development work was not expedited even though the Municipal Commissioner as the Administrator has the decision-making power. Expenditure statistics have revealed this.
In the current Civic Budget of 2024-25, Rs 1,422.32 crore has been earmarked for capital expenditure. In the past nine months, only Rs 526.63 crore has been spent. Rs 895.26 crore remained unspent.
The Administrator’s rule began in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) on March 13, 2022 after the term of the previous General Body ended. The Municipal Commissioner is the Administrator. He has all the decision-making power. A major capital expenditure is done on concrete and tar roads, bridges, flyovers, buildings, schools, hospitals, zoo, playgrounds, gardens, urban street design, green corridor and for other development work and projects.
It is the second largest revenue expenditure after the salaries of officials and staff. Money is allocated in the civic budget for starting various project work after completing the tender process.
Adequate funds are made available for pending work from the previous year. In the 2024-25 Civic Budget, Rs 1,422.32 crore is allocated for capital expenditure. It is expected to be spent within the year. However, nine months are over but the Civil Department spent only Rs 526.63 crore. It is 37 pc of the allocated expenditure amount. Rs 895.26 crore is the balance money. If it is not spent in the next three months, it will remain unused. It will then be transferred to other work.
Big projects in three months
Corporators used to suggest some works within their wards, which the civic administration would do. In the absence of corporators, the administration is doing work suggested by MLAs and MPs. Big projects may be taken up in the next three months.
City Engineer Makarand Nikam said, “Development work slowed down during the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections. Bills are issued on the basis of completed work stages. An emphasis is given on completing work in the last three months of the Financial Year. Contractors concerned present bills during this period. Thus, capital expenditure will grow by March 31, 2025.”
