PMC Hearing Today On Yerwada Tree Felling: Pune Citizens Rally To Save 246 Trees
PMC Hearing Today On Yerwada Tree Felling: Pune Citizens Rally To Save 246 Trees ( Representational image )
The proposed felling of 246 native trees at Yerwada Chowk for an administrative building has sparked strong opposition from environmentalists and citizens. These trees, planted a decade ago by former PWD Building Director Rajendra Gole, have flourished into a vital green cover. However, despite efforts to promote native afforestation, the administration prioritizes urban expansion over ecological balance.
During the project’s early stages, an official had sought saplings from Ashok Ghorpade, Chief Garden Superintendent of Sambhaji Garden. However, as the saplings provided were non-native species, they were declined in favor of native fruit trees, personally funded by Ghorpade through nursery owner Datta Nikalje. Now, these carefully nurtured trees face the axe, raising concerns over environmental sustainability.
Pune resident Ameet Singh has strongly opposed the felling, highlighting that the area reflects “the dedication of a committed officer, showcasing lush greenery.” Meanwhile, Rajendra Gole, now in the Chief Minister’s Office, has yet to comment on the controversy.
As public outcry grows, all eyes are on today’s Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) hearing, where the fate of these trees will be decided. Environmentalists are urging the administration to prioritize conservation over unchecked development, warning that Pune’s green cover is at stake.
Citizens demand transparency, accountability, and a commitment to sustainable urban planning before irreversible damage is done.
The hearing on this issue is scheduled today at Yerwada ward office at 4 pm on March 21,2025.
