Special Correspondent
Pune: Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh has issued a stern warning against any elements attempting to harass entrepreneurs. He assured that strict action would be taken against troublemakers while maintaining the confidentiality of the complainants.
Deshmukh was speaking at a meeting held at the Maratha Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (MCCIA) to address various concerns of entrepreneurs. The meeting was attended by Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulakundwar, Pune Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale, Special Inspector General of Police (Kolhapur Range) Sunil Phulari, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, Additional Commissioner of Police (Pimpri-Chinchwad) Vasant Paradeshi, Pune Division’s Deputy Director of Industries Shailesh Rajput, and General Manager of the District Industries Centre Archana Kothari, along with other senior officials from various departments.
Dr. Chandrakant Pulakundwar emphasized that the state government is committed to fostering an industry-friendly environment. He stated that efforts would be made to attract industries from various sectors to the district. He also urged administrative departments to adopt a collective approach in resolving industrial issues.
Under the Chief Minister’s 100-day Action Plan, the government aims to attract maximum investment and provide comprehensive support to industries. As part of this initiative, meetings are being held every two months to identify and resolve the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Officials have been directed to take necessary action before the next meeting.
Key issues discussed in the meeting included infrastructure facilities such as electricity, water supply, and roads. Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has been asked to prioritize these needs. The government will also expedite approvals and fund allocations for infrastructure projects.
To ensure uninterrupted power supply, Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (MSEDCL) has been directed to upgrade feeders, substations, and transmission lines. Similarly, MIDC has been urged to accelerate road construction and repairs in industrial areas.
Authorities such as the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), District Council, and Revenue Department have been instructed to remove encroachments from roads. The Public Works Department (PWD) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will undertake immediate road repairs and ensure smooth traffic movement. Maintaining encroachment-free and well-maintained roads will be the responsibility of the respective agencies.
Dr. Pulakundwar also mentioned that Pune’s Integrated Transport Plan is in the final approval stage, and implementation will begin soon. The Pune Ring Road project is being expedited and is expected to be completed within the next two years. Short-term and long-term measures will be taken to ease traffic congestion for industries.
District Collector Jitendra Dudi highlighted the importance of small tool-manufacturing industries, which play a crucial role in supporting larger industries. Since these businesses are scattered across different locations, efforts will be made to provide them with dedicated industrial clusters and other necessary facilities. Additionally, the government will work towards resolving issues faced by private-sector industries.
