The Times of India 09.10.2013
Civic panel allocates Rs 20cr to PMPML
PUNE: The standing committee on Tuesday approved a proposal to provide Rs 20 crore to the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) to support its free and subsidized passes' scheme.
"The Pune Municipal corporation has already paid Rs 10 crore to the PMPML. On Tuesday, the standing committee approved Rs 20 crore proposal to help the transport body to continue with its free and subsidized passes scheme," said standing committee chairman Vishal Tambe.
In 2012-13, the PMPML suffered a deficit of Rs 62.22 crore. The PMPML officials stated that the PMC must help the public transport utility to overcome financial crisis and to continue with its free and subsidized passes scheme. The PMPML had demanded Rs 33 crore from the civic body.
There are 12 types of passes given to the commuters by the PMPML at discounted rates. Some of them are meant for students, senior citizens and physically-challenged individuals.
"The PMC has always helped the transport body to manage it finances. With total allocation of Rs 30 crore, the PMC has now shouldered the major responsibility to address the problem. Its time that Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation also help the PMPML," said Tambe.
Action against malls continues
The PMC continued to take action against malls for violating building norms. It demolished illegal construction in three malls across the city on Tuesday.
The PMC started the drive last week after it observed that vacant areas marked in malls and multiplexes to help visitors in case of any untoward event are being encroached. These areas are being used for reception and setting up stalls, exhibitions and game zones. In some malls, terrace areas have been covered.
According to the PMC, it defeats the purpose of allotting open spaces in malls. The PMC officials are checking if the malls are working as per the no-objection certificates of the fire brigade and occupation certificates. Even parking facilities are being checked.
