Pune: For many young voters across Pune, Thursday’s Pune Municipal Corporation elections marked a personal milestone — casting their vote for the first time in civic elections. From college campuses in Shivajinagar to housing societies in Baner, Wagholi and Hadapsar, Gen Z voters stepped out early, some with friends and others with family, eager to take part in the process.At polling booths across the city, the young voters spoke about issues that shape their everyday lives. Traffic congestion, public transport, affordable housing, clean water supply and job opportunities dominated conversations among them.Many said voting gave them a sense of inclusion and responsibility in decisions that affect their city.“I complain about traffic every day, but today I finally felt I had a say. Better roads and reliable buses were my main reasons for voting,” said Aarav Kulkarni, a 19-year-old engineering student from Kothrud.In Hinjewadi, IT trainee Sneha Patil said her vote was guided by concerns around safety and basic civic amenities. “Street lighting, women’s safety and waste management matter to us. Social media debates are fine, but voting is where real change begins,” she said.Several youngsters said they were influenced by discussions at home as well as online campaigns. In Yerawada, commerce student Mohsin Shaikh said he closely followed candidates on Instagram and YouTube before voting. “This generation checks everything online. We voted after seeing what candidates promised and how they connected with young people,” he said.Environmental issues also found strong resonance among Gen Z voters. “Pune is growing rapidly, but its green cover is shrinking,” said Ananya Dutta, an architecture student from Aundh. “I voted for better urban planning and sustainable development.”Outside a polling station in Wagholi, a group of friends paused for selfies, calling the moment memorable. “This is our first step as responsible citizens. We want leaders who listen,” said Arya Dhere.Sisters Mrunal Pathak (19) and Radhika Pathak (21) also voted for the first time in civic elections. “Cleanliness is our biggest concern — public spaces, roadsides, everything needs attention. Road conditions and traffic problems must also be addressed as a priority,” they said.Nineteen-year-old Pushkar Prashant Srivastava had jitters as he stepped inside the polling booth. “I was a little nervous as this was my first time casting my vote. I am hoping for good days ahead,” he said.Bhakti Kakade (20) said the experience was both empowering and encouraging. “The arrangements were systematic, and the atmosphere promoted responsible participation. It felt good to contribute to the democratic process and make my voice count.”Law student Swara Kulkarni (20) echoed similar sentiments. “Voting is our duty and our power in a democracy. I voted keeping cleanliness, employment generation, traffic solutions and infrastructure development in mind. These are issues that directly impact the quality of life in the city.”For Pune’s youngest voters, the election was not just about ballots and booths — it was a first step into civic responsibility, driven by hope for a more liveable, inclusive and sustainable city.
