Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Ambadas Danve Questions Delay, Demands Public Debate with BJP
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, May 15 — Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve, on Thursday raised serious concerns over the delayed completion of the parallel water supply pipeline project from Jayakwadi dam to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.At a press conference, Danve stated that work remains incomplete, although the pipeline project was slated for completion by February 3, 2024. “The work order was issued on February 4, 2021, with a three-year deadline. It is still not finished. While we are not raising questions about water from the new line yet, water from the existing supply line should at least be delivered every 2–3 days,” he said.
Current Water Supply Far Below Demand
Highlighting the city’s worsening water situation, Danve pointed out that the current supply is only 140 million litres daily (MLD), far short of the required 240 MLD. “Under such circumstances, residents should receive water every 2 to 3 days, but currently, the gap is as long as 12 days,” he alleged.Financial Burden and Cost Escalation
Danve also criticized the financial decisions surrounding the project, accusing the state government of burdening the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation with a loan of ₹822 crore. “If the original scheme was valued at ₹1,680 crore, why has the cost risen to ₹2,740 crore?” he questioned.Open Challenge to the BJP for Public Debate
Taking a direct jab at the ruling party, Danve dared BJP leaders to engage in an open public debate. “We are ready to debate with BJP leaders if they are prepared to discuss this openly,” he asserted.Earlier in the day, BJP leader and state minister Atul Save claimed that the pipeline work is nearing completion. However, Danve’s remarks indicate significant dissatisfaction with the project timeline and handling the city's water crisis.
The political heat continues to rise as residents await tangible improvements in their water supply.