PUNE To avoid work disruptions and maintain discipline, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has banned contractual employees from using mobile phones during office hours. The ban – applicable to labor hired through outsourcing agencies – was published and implemented on Wednesday.

Sunil Pandhare, municipal commissioner and joint administrative officer of PMRDA, who announced the ban, said, “Contractual employees have to present their mobile phones to the department officials upon entry and can collect them while leaving the office. »

A basic cell phone will be maintained with the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to contact employees’ families in case of emergency. “If any employee is found with a mobile phone, it will be confiscated and appropriate action will be taken,” Pandhare said. He stressed that the ban aims to ensure the smooth running of the office by allowing employees to remain focused on their work.

The PMRDA operates with an approved structure of 407 positions. However, many of these positions remain vacant due to delays in the deputation and direct recruitment processes. Until these vacancies are filled through the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) and the district selection committee, the authority has appointed an external agency to provide contractual staff.

Over the past month, PMRDA has hired approximately 300 Class 2 and Class 3 employees through a third-party agency. Of the 407 sanctioned posts, 89 permanent employees, including Class 1 and Class 2 officers, are currently in place. The remaining positions will be filled gradually according to government procedures.

Since excessive use of mobile phones by contractual employees during office hours has reportedly affected productivity and raised privacy concerns, the PMRDA has imposed this ban to address these issues and ensure that employees remain focused on their tasks. Officials believe this step will improve efficiency and ensure smooth running of offices.