Defence Ministry Approves Land for Pune River Rejuvenation
The Defence Ministry has granted approval for the transfer of 17 acres of defence land to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) for its ambitious river rejuvenation and beautification project. This critical development, which stretches along a 44-km section of the city’s riverfront, is expected to bolster the city’s sustainability efforts while offering its residents much-needed green spaces.
The land, located between Sangamwadi Crematorium and Sadal Baba Dargha, was cleared for transfer by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, following his official correspondence with Pune MP and Minister of State for Cooperation and Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol. The clearance comes after a series of follow-ups and is expected to expedite the project’s progress, which had previously been delayed by land acquisition issues.
The river rejuvenation project, which is part of the city’s larger urban development initiative, aims to create eco-friendly spaces for public recreation. The project will include open gyms, gardens, and recreational areas, all designed with sustainability and environmental consciousness in mind. The approval of this 17-acre land parcel is seen as a vital step toward realising a greener, more inclusive Pune—an effort in line with the city’s long-term goal of reducing its carbon footprint and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
In line with Pune’s vision of creating equitable, gender-neutral, and environmentally conscious urban spaces, the riverfront project holds immense potential. It reflects the growing importance of integrating sustainable practices in city planning and development. As the city continues to battle the challenges of rapid urbanisation and climate change, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope, signalling a future where growth and sustainability go hand in hand.
With the Defence Ministry’s green light, Pune is now poised to set a new benchmark for eco-friendly urban projects across the country, demonstrating that cities can grow while preserving their natural heritage and fostering a healthier, greener environment for all.
