The idea of having a gym and a library was discussed at various levels in the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) in last few years but no concrete steps were taken. Now some of the elected representatives are pushing the idea and the civic administration is all positive about it. "It is a good suggestion and a necessity. We would work out on the proposal," municipal commissioner Pravinsinh Pardeshi told TOI on Monday.

"The idea has been in discussion in the last few years but there was no concrete action taken. The civic body should have a library where not only municipal acts but even other books are available for reading and reference. We would definitely push forward the idea so that the library comes up at the civic headquarters," said senior NCP corporator Ajit Apte. He added that the proposal to start yoga classes for the corporators and the civic staff was initiated but the idea never became a reality for some reason or the other. "This time we would ensure that a library and a gym is set up in the PMC building," said Apte.

Opposition parties are in full support of the proposal. "These are essential facilities that the civic body should have," said BJP corporator Ujwal Keskar who added that as the functioning of the civic body is decentralised, the PMC should put in efforts to set up libraries in ward offices as well.

Leader of the house and NCP corporator Anil Bhosale said that his party was not averse of the idea. "Before implementing it, we will have discussions with all party leaders," said Bhosale.

But the common man has another take on the matter. "It is a welcome idea if these facilities are going to attract city fathers to the corporation. Otherwise they are hardly seen in the civic headquarters," quipped Nana Puranik a senior citizen.