Merger of Pune and Kirkee cantonment boards into PMC in process: Union MoS Mohol

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the largest civic body in the state, is all set to grow like the Merger of Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) and Kirkee Cantonment Board (KCB) with the PMC underway.

Union minister and municipal MP Murlidhar Mohol on Wednesday said that the merger of PCB and KCB into PMC is in the process. “The process of merger of PCB and KCB into PMC is underway so that basic civic services can be provided to the citizens of the area,” Mohol said.

“As a deputy of Pune “It is my responsibility to track it and make sure the merger happens faster so that citizens get better civic services,” he said, noting that these types of mergers were happening across the country.

On whether there was a need to split PMC into more municipal corporations to ensure effective civic services to citizens, Mohol said there is no need to split PMC now. “If things can be managed in BombayPune is geographically larger than Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), but it can be managed for now. In the future, we can think about strengthening civic services. “Also, the PMC polls have just ended,” he said.

“Rapid urbanization in Pune is putting pressure on meeting the water needs of residents,” Mohol said, adding that more water sources, including the Mulshi dam, will be explored along with measures to reduce water loss due to theft or leaks in the existing water supply system through an equitable water supply project.

“The residents of Pune have given absolute majority to the BJP to carry out the development of the city. Therefore, it is our responsibility to fulfill the public demands and promises made during the elections,” he said, adding that the priority is to complete the long-delayed equitable water supply, river improvement and beautification project.

The Chief Minister said Devendra Fadnavis has ordered everyone not to show political flexibility in the city and the city BJP will stick to that. “We want a flex-free city and instructions have been given to the PMC administration to remove flex and take action on illegal installation of flex panels, irrespective of who put them up,” he added.

Story continues below this ad.

Mohol said the process to acquire 300 acres of land for expansion of Pune airport will begin soon. “The new terminal is open at the Pune airport while the renovation of the old terminal is underway. Once the acquired land is used to extend the runway, wide-body aircraft will be able to land at the airport, allowing international flights from all over the world to operate from Pune,” he said.

Ajay Jadhav is assistant editor at The Indian Express, Pune. With more than 22 years of industry experience, he is a highly specialized journalist whose work focuses on the intersection of urban infrastructure, governance and sustainability. Professional Experience Role: As Assistant Editor, he plays a key role in the editorial direction of the Pune office, specializing in urban policy and its direct impact on citizens. Education: He has a Master’s degree in Communication and Journalism from Savitribai Phule Pune University and a PG Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He also studied at the prestigious Fergusson College. Shocking reports: You are credited with articles based on research on conservation staff (waste workers) who influenced national policy to improve working conditions. He is also known for exposing the contrast between high-level infrastructure (such as helipads for leaders) and the lack of basic services such as schools in his home districts. Personal Interests: An avid hiker and sports enthusiast, his personal interest in outdoor activities often influences his reporting on environmental protection and sustainable development. Recent Notable Articles (December 2025) Your reports at the end of 2025 have been dominated by the upcoming January 2026 civic polls in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the city’s infrastructure boom: 1. Political Analysis (Civic Elections 2026) “Not friendly, but a bitter fight looms between BJP and NCP over PMC, PCMC” (22) December 2025): A detailed look at Intense rivalry between Mahayuti partners as they prepare for the January 15 municipal elections. “Pune civic polls: Big blow for NCP and NCP(SP) as leaders switch to BJP” (December 20, 2025): Report on poaching and high-profile party changes ahead of elections. “Ajit Pawar’s NCP continues dominance in Pune, wins 10 out of 17 local bodies” (December 21, 2025): Analysis of local self-governing bodies’ election results as precursors to major civic polls. 2. Infrastructure and Urban Development “Looking ahead in 2026: Pune will see inauguration of long-awaited Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar metro route” (December 22, 2025) – An “insights” article on the critical Metro Line 3 project expected to be completed by March 2026. “Pune construction: PMC to build double-decker bridge over Mula-Mutha river” (18 December 2025) 2025): details a major project aimed at facilitating traffic between Hadapsar and Kharadi. “Condition of Pune-Kolhapur road to improve in a year: Gadkari” (December 4, 2025): Report on Union Minister’s assurance regarding one of the most critical transport corridors in the state. 3. Civic Governance and Environment “Install sensors and LED indicators at construction sites within 15 days: PMC for builders” (December 16, 2025) – A continuation of the “Breathless Pune” series, reporting on new mandates for builders to monitor air quality in real time. “Errors in electoral rolls: PMC corrects data of 92,466 voters” (December 16, 2025): Tracking administrative efforts to clean up voter lists ahead of 2026 elections. Signature style Ajay Jadhav is known for his accountability journalism. His work often bridges the gap between high-level politics and the ‘ground zero’ reality of Pune residents. It is particularly focused on sustainable development, ensuring that as Pune becomes a “Bharat Mandapam”-style destination (referring to its report on the Lohegaon project), its environmental and social safeguards remain intact. X (Twitter): @ajay_khape …Read more

Click here join WhatsApp Express Pune Channel and get a curated list of our stories

Select a plan

Monthly plan

Yearly plan

All plans include

Search for an article