Pune: many candidates are grappling with the impact of the model code of conduct, which has halted several key development projects. This disruption comes at a time when these projects were seen as vital to securing voter support.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar had approved a significant ₹1,256 crore in funds for various initiatives through the District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC). In
In addition, authorities approved projects worth ₹5,500 crore to address urgent needs, including infrastructure, health, and education. However, with the election code coming into force, the authorities froze the execution of these plans, frustrating candidates who had hoped to showcase these achievements.
Several public and civic facility projects, such as the repair of school buildings, rural roadworks, and infrastructure under the Nagarotthan Abhiyan, received approval.
Despite this, the tender processes could not proceed, putting projects valued at ₹366 crore at a standstill. Pune Zilla Parishad CEO, Vijay Singh Nalavde, emphasized that this delay is especially impactful for works over ₹10 lakh, which require a tender process to proceed.
With over 30 DPDC members from various constituencies, many MLAs, especially from the Grand Alliance, were counting on these projects to boost their electoral prospects. However, the suspension of these projects has prevented them from presenting tangible achievements during the campaign season. This has raised concerns among candidates, who fear that a potential change in power after the elections might lead to the redistribution of projects, leaving them without accomplishments to highlight.
The stalling of these initiatives has not only caused dissatisfaction among candidates but has also disrupted the flow of essential development work, potentially influencing voter sentiment in key areas.
