Under this initiative, PMC has proposed to conserve and reconstruct the existing underground pipelines, cisterns, and water reservoirs. (File Photo)The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) standing committee on Thursday approved a proposal for restoration and conservation of the underground water supply system — dating back to the Peshwa era and spanning from Katraj to Shaniwarwada — a decision aimed at tackling the city’s water shortage due to rapid urbanisation as well as preserving Pune’s historical heritage.Constructed during the Peshwa period, the system is regarded as a testament to the engineering of that era, Standing Committee chairman Srinath Bhimale said, adding it utilised the natural gradient from Katraj Lake, transporting water to Shaniwarwada nearly 20 km away through a network of underground stone and earthen pipes.Also Read | Centre approves Rs 890 cr for water supply project in GBS-hit villagesThe system serves as a scientific outlook and water management techniques prevalent at that time, he said, adding remnants of the historic water channel currently lie in a state of neglect, with certain sections on the verge of total disintegration. Consequently, the need for a comprehensive archaeological and technical survey of the entire project has been emphasised in order to preserve this invaluable heritage.Under this initiative, it is proposed to conserve and reconstruct the existing underground pipelines, cisterns, and water reservoirs. Furthermore, there are plans to designate the scheme as a “heritage conservation project” and to introduce informational signboards, study tours, and heritage tourism activities for the benefit of citizens and students.NCP leader and corporator Suhas Tingre has urged that the guidance of the state archaeology department and history researchers be sought for this undertaking, and that a dedicated fund be allocated for the project.Ajay Jadhav is an Assistant Editor at The Indian Express, Pune. With over 22 years of experience in the industry, he is a highly specialized journalist whose work focuses on the intersection of urban infrastructure, governance, and sustainability. Professional Background Role: As Assistant Editor, he plays a key role in the editorial direction of the Pune bureau, specializing in urban policy and its direct impact on citizens. Education: He holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Journalism from Savitribai Phule Pune University and a PG Diploma in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He also studied at the prestigious Fergusson College. Impactful Reporting: He is credited with research-based articles on conservancy staff (waste workers) that influenced national policy for better working conditions. He is also known for exposing the contrast between high-end infrastructure (like helipads for leaders) and the lack of basic amenities like schools in their home districts. Personal Interests: An avid trekker and sports enthusiast, his personal interest in the outdoors often informs his reporting on environmental protection and sustainable development. Recent Notable Articles (December 2025) His reporting in late 2025 has been dominated by the upcoming January 2026 Civic Polls in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, and the city's infrastructure boom: 1. Political Analysis (Civic Elections 2026) "Not friendly but a bitter fight lies ahead between BJP and NCP for PMC, PCMC" (Dec 22, 2025): A detailed look at the intense rivalry between the Mahayuti partners as they prepare for the January 15 municipal elections. "Pune civic polls: Big blow to NCP, NCP(SP) as leaders switch to BJP" (Dec 20, 2025): Reporting on high-profile poaching and party-hopping ahead of the elections. "Ajit Pawar's NCP continues domination in Pune, wins 10 of 17 local bodies" (Dec 21, 2025): Analyzing the results of the local self-government body elections as a precursor to the main civic polls. 2. Infrastructure & Urban Development "Looking Ahead at 2026: Pune to see inauguration of much-awaited Hinjewadi to Shivajinagar metro route" (Dec 22, 2025): An "outlook" piece on the critical Metro Line 3 project expected to finish by March 2026. "Building Pune: PMC to construct double-decker bridge over Mula-Mutha River" (Dec 18, 2025): Detailing a major project aimed at easing traffic between Hadapsar and Kharadi. "Condition of highway from Pune to Kolhapur to improve in a year: Gadkari" (Dec 4, 2025): Reporting on the Union Minister’s assurances regarding one of the state's most critical transport corridors. 3. Civic Governance & Environment "Install sensors, LED indicators at construction sites within 15 days: PMC to builders" (Dec 16, 2025): A follow-up to the "Breathless Pune" series, reporting on new mandates for builders to monitor air quality in real-time. "Errors in electoral rolls: PMC corrects data of 92,466 voters" (Dec 16, 2025): Tracking the administrative efforts to clean up the voter lists before the 2026 elections. Signature Style Ajay Jadhav is known for accountability journalism. His work often bridges the gap between high-level policy and the "ground zero" reality of Pune's residents. He is particularly focused on Sustainable Development, ensuring that as Pune grows into a "Bharat Mandapam" style destination (referring to his report on the Lohegaon project), its environmental and social safeguards remain intact. X (Twitter): @ajay_khape ... Read MoreClick here to join Express Pune WhatsApp channel and get a curated list of our stories© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd