Balewadi Welfare Federation’s Green Mission: Over 150 Trees Planted in Mega Drive
Pune, August 12, 2024: As part of its ongoing “Green Balewadi Mission,” the Balewadi Welfare Federation (BWF) organized a Mega Tree Plantation Drive at the open ground near Balewadi High Street. The event, held on Sunday, attracted over 100 participants who collectively planted more than 150 native trees, marking another milestone in the Federation’s environmental initiatives.
The event was graced by Mr. Nitin Narvekar, Joint Managing Director of Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited, who attended as the Chief Guest. Mr. Laxman Borate, Retired ACP of Pune Police, served as the Guest of Honour. Other prominent attendees included Mr. Ganpatrao Appasaheb Balwadkar, Mr. Lahu Balwadkar, Mr. Ganesh Kalamkar, Mr. Jeevan Chakankar, and Mr. Shivam Balwadkar.
In his address, Mr. Nitin Narvekar lauded BWF’s ongoing efforts to enhance the green cover in Balewadi. He shared his vision for the open ground, suggesting it could be developed into a vibrant community hub similar to Chittaranjan Vatika in Model Colony, featuring an environmental park, walking tracks, a children’s play area, and an open-air gym. He also highlighted Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal’s collaboration with Pune Metro to improve public transport and reduce air pollution in the city.
Mr. Lahu Balwadkar and Mr. Ganesh Kalamkar praised the Federation’s various initiatives, acknowledging their significant impact on improving the quality of life for Balewadi residents.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Ashish Kotamkar shared the progress of the Green Balewadi Mission, launched in 2022. He noted that over 1,500 trees have been planted and nurtured by residents in collaboration with the Pune Municipal Corporation and Pune Smart City Corporation over the last three years. Mr. Kotamkar reaffirmed the Federation’s commitment to restoring and enhancing Balewadi’s green cover through continued tree plantation drives.
In his closing address, Mr. Ramesh Rokade, Chairman of Balewadi Welfare Federation, expressed his gratitude to local residents, representatives, and government officials for their support in the Federation’s various initiatives. He acknowledged the contributions of Federation members, particularly Mr. Moreshwar Balwadkar and Mr. Ashish Kotamkar, for their key roles in the success of the Mega Tree Plantation Drive.
The event was anchored by Mrs. Mrunal Gaikwad, a Heritage International Award Winner and Balewadi resident.