When it comes to the ongoing Pune vs. Mumbai debate, the claim by Punekars that their city receives secondary and step-sisterly treatment compared to Mumbai remains a consistent point of discussion.

This topic has once again resurfaced in a conversation among Punekars on X (formerly Twitter). It all started when Pune-based writer Shilpa Godbole took to X to share her experience during a recent visit to Mumbai. She pointed out how the city's leadership seems more focused on organizing grand cultural events than addressing the basic issues that plague Pune.

Mumbai VS Pune

Godbole recounted her time in Mumbai, explaining how, within just two minutes of the cab ride, the driver figured out they weren’t Mumbaikars. She wrote, "Probably the way our jaws hit the floor when we glided from the Coastal Road straight onto the Sea Link toward Bandra." The driver then proudly commented, “Govt Singapore sarkha karnar Mumbai la!”

She continued, "As a hardcore Punekar, I couldn’t help but think: Sure, make Mumbai the next Singapore, Tokyo, whatever, good for them! But seriously, what unforgivable crime did Pune commit to deserve being ignored this spectacularly? In just 24 hours, we spotted more traffic police in Mumbai than we do in Pune over six months. Are Pune’s traffic cops on some top-secret stealth mission or what?"

Godbole's post sparked several reactions from both Punekars and Mumbaikars. One person commented, "I am unable to comprehend your surprise/shock at this state of affairs. I have had one leg in Mumbai and the other in Pune for 20+ years now. It was obvious then, it is now, and it will remain so for at least the next 100 years, Pune will always get this step-sisterly treatment."

Another person remarked, "Pune is ignored by Punekars first! Why not ask questions to elected MLAs, MPs?"

"I second this – been in Mumbai for a few days, and even though I visit regularly, I’m always in awe of the scale it operates at. But there are major road quality issues: long stretches with no street lights, potholes, excavated roads, dug-up sidewalks, etc. Some bad traffic elements, like any other city, with drivers lacking sense. The difference between Mumbai and Pune is massive. In Mumbai, drivers break rules in a rush, but there’s enforcement – saw 50+ cops on a 30-40 minute drive from BKC to Powai. In Pune, drivers break laws, then take time to stare daggers at anyone who calls them out, even eyeing people in cars. It’s mind-boggling how Pune’s traffic discipline has worsened, with zero progress compared to this megapolis just hours away," wrote another user.

"Frankly, I’m not surprised. Look at the amount of 'activism' that happens in Pune for every small development project. Except for Aarey, there was no public protest in Mumbai for the Sea Link or Coastal Road. Look at the reaction to the Chandni Chowk junction and riverfront development in Pune," another user pointed out.