Pune: Kothrud Bal Natyagruha Project Cost Rises from ₹7 Crore to ₹20 Crore, Work Still Incomplete After 11 Years
Pune: Kothrud Bal Natyagruha Project Cost Rises from ₹7 Crore to ₹20 Crore, Work Still Incomplete After 11 Years
Pune, June 27, 2026: The long-delayed Balasaheb Thackeray Bal Natyagruha and Art Gallery project in Kothrud has come under scrutiny after its estimated cost reportedly increased from ₹7 crore to nearly ₹20 crore, even as construction remains incomplete more than 11 years after work began.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) recently floated tenders for the installation of air-conditioning systems at the art gallery, while the Standing Committee on Thursday approved a proposal worth ₹68.95 lakh for mural and artistic decoration work inside the Bal Natyagruha.
According to civic officials, the mural work is intended to enhance the interior aesthetics of the cultural facility and make it more attractive for visitors. However, the continued delays and rising project costs have triggered criticism from Pune residents.
The Balasaheb Thackeray Art Gallery and Bal Natyagruha have been under construction for over a decade, with the project yet to be completed. Artists, performers and audiences have been waiting for the cultural venue to become operational.
Speaking to reporters, PMC Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale said the civic body would conduct a detailed inspection of the project to determine the reasons behind the prolonged delay.
“We will inspect the project and gather information on why the work has remained incomplete for so many years, the reasons for the delay, the expenditure incurred so far and the current status of construction,” Bhimale said.
The project has drawn public criticism as its cost has nearly tripled over the last 11 to 12 years without completion. Citizens have questioned the delay and expressed concern over the increasing financial burden on the civic body.
The PMC is expected to review the progress of the project and examine the reasons behind the escalation in costs before deciding on the next course of action.
