Undri to get its first public garden as PMC clears development plans
Pune is on the cusp of a significant urban transformation as the civic administration moves forward with plans to develop a long-awaited public garden in the rapidly expanding Undri area. The project, a direct result of consistent appeals from local residents, represents a pivotal victory for community-led advocacy in the face of rampant, unplanned construction. This initiative marks a crucial step toward building a more equitable and eco-friendly urban landscape, where green infrastructure and public well-being are prioritised over unbridled development.
Pune’s Undri neighbourhood, despite its official inclusion within city limits for nearly a decade, has long struggled with a severe deficit of basic amenities and green spaces. Residents, who have witnessed an unchecked surge in building construction, have consistently voiced concerns over the lack of public infrastructure, including reliable water supply, functional drainage, and safe pedestrian pathways. This absence of essential civic facilities has created a significant quality-of-life issue for the community, highlighting a systemic failure in integrating sustainable urban development practices with population growth. The proposed public garden is not merely a recreational space; it is a symbol of a long-overdue commitment to public well-being.
Following a formal application submitted by a local residents’ welfare foundation, officials conducted a comprehensive site inspection of the earmarked land. The site’s existing boundary wall and a pre-established approach road make the project logistically feasible and cost-effective. Given the lack of any major green space in the immediate vicinity, this project is poised to serve as a vital ecological and social hub for the growing population, acting as a much-needed green lung in a predominantly concrete environment. The development aligns with the principles of creating a zero-net carbon city by providing a natural habitat that can help combat the urban heat island effect and improve local air quality.
The emotional and practical benefits for the community are immense. The planned garden will feature designated walking and jogging tracks, providing a safe, gender-neutral recreational zone for all residents, from senior citizens to children. This space is particularly crucial for pedestrians, who currently risk their lives navigating heavily trafficked roads with water tankers and construction trucks. The initiative demonstrates a commitment to creating an equitable city where public safety is paramount and accessible green spaces are available to all, regardless of age or gender. The project serves as a compelling reminder that truly sustainable cities are those that put the health and safety of their inhabitants at the very core of their planning.
The proposal has now been forwarded to the relevant committee for final approvals. The community awaits the timely execution of this project, hopeful that it will set a new precedent for urban development in Pune. This initiative is a powerful stand for a society that values a balanced approach to progress—one where green spaces and human well-being are as important as commercial and residential expansion. It is a victory for the people, proving that collective voices can shape a more sustainable and liveable urban future.
