PMC Faces Backlash Post Wall Collapse

In the aftermath of the compound wall collapse on June 13 outside Kshitij Co-Operative Housing Society in Sahakarnagar No. 2, a dispute has emerged between the housing society and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). Residents argue that the society should not be held accountable for the incident, as the outer portion of the wall collapsed. However, on June 14, the PMC issued a notice to the society, claiming the area falls under the jurisdiction of the forest department. Consequently, both the forest department and the society must implement necessary safety measures, or the chairperson and secretary of the society will be held liable.

The PMC’s notice to the society stated, “A portion of the compound wall on the western and southern sides of D Building of Kshitij Co-operative Housing Society in Sahakarnagar No. 2 in Pune suddenly collapsed on 13/06/2024. Upon inspection, it was observed that several two-wheelers were damaged. The compound wall is under the jurisdiction of the forest department. Therefore, the society must contact the forest department and take immediate action to remove the hazardous section of the wall. Protective measures, such as installing a safety net and increasing the wall’s height under expert supervision, must be promptly executed. Failing this, the chairman/secretary of the society will bear full responsibility for any future accidents at the site.”

In response, the Sahakarnagar Citizens’ Forum questioned the accountability imposed on the society’s chairperson and secretary. In a letter to the PMC, the forum stated, “On June 13, 2024, part of the compound wall of Kshitij Society, Sahakarnagar No. 2, collapsed, damaging a few vehicles but fortunately causing no injuries. The subsequent PMC notice on June 14 shockingly placed the onus on the society to prevent future damage, absolving the PMC of responsibility. We remind the PMC that the construction of Kshitij Society was sanctioned by them, rendering the property legal and official. Residents are honest, middle-class taxpayers who contribute to the PMC through property taxes. It is the PMC’s duty to take preventive measures against natural calamities outside the society’s limits. Instead, the PMC’s act of deflecting responsibility by issuing a notice to the society is irresponsible.”

The forum further asserted that it is the municipal corporation’s fundamental duty to promptly address and mitigate risks in the event of natural calamities, to protect citizens’ lives and property. They urged the PMC to take immediate action on the issues outlined in the notice to prevent future accidents and stressed that any negligence on the part of the municipal corporation in handling such incidents would hold them accountable for any ensuing loss.

This incident has sparked a significant debate about the distribution of responsibilities between municipal authorities and housing societies, highlighting the need for clear guidelines and cooperation to ensure public safety and accountability.