As temperatures rise in Pune, many residents are turning to civic swimming pools for relief. These pools are often the only affordable option for common citizens, especially as private facilities charge high fees. However, the current situation has raised questions about public safety.
The city has around 35 to 40 swimming pools under PMC. Officials have not conducted fresh tenders for several months. As a result, many pools are still being run by old contractors even after their contracts have expired.
What is more concerning is that in several cases, there is no formal agreement in place. This creates confusion over responsibility if any accident takes place.
There are also complaints about poor safety standards. Many pools do not have enough trained lifeguards. Safety equipment is either missing or not properly maintained. Concerns about water cleanliness have also been raised.
In some places, more people are allowed than the pool capacity. Emergency arrangements are also lacking, which increases the risk during peak hours.
As per rules, there should be at least one lifeguard for every 20 swimmers. However, in reality, even with hundreds of people in the pool, the number of lifeguards is often very low.
Residents have also complained about overcharging, with some contractors allegedly collecting more money than the approved rates.
The situation has led to growing concern among citizens, who are now demanding strict action and proper monitoring to ensure safety at these public facilities.
read more at mumbaipune.co.in
