Pune: CEC Member to Inspect Controversial Bal Bharati Paud Phata Road Proposal Amid Environmental Concerns On April 5
Pune: CEC Member to Inspect Controversial Bal Bharati Paud Phata Road Proposal Amid Environmental Concerns On April 5
The Central Empowerment Committee (CEC) is set to scrutinize the proposed Bal Bharati Paud Phata (BBPP) Road in Pune amidst mounting opposition from environmental activists and citizens. Scheduled for April 5, CEC member Sunil Limaye will personally visit the site to assess the ground reality amid conflicting viewpoints regarding the potential environmental impact and traffic relief benefits.
Previously, a survey involving former mayor Murlidhar Mohol, MLA Siddarth Shirole, and PMC officials was conducted in response to citizen and activist concerns. Following this, the CEC penned a letter to the Pune municipal commissioner, urging for comprehensive details and maps related to the proposed road to be furnished to Limaye. Highlighting the road’s trajectory through a man made forest on Law College hill slopes, the CEC emphasized the importance of gathering factual information during the upcoming site visit.
However, BJP leader Ujwal Keskar defended the project, citing legal victories in favor of the PMC and state government approval. Despite this, activists have lodged appeals with the CEC, leading to Limaye’s imminent inspection of the site. While acknowledging the democratic right to express concerns, Keskar urged the PMC to present the necessity and factual basis for the road before the committee.
The proposed BBPP Road has sparked a division in public opinion, with environmentalists fearing adverse effects on the hill environment and others advocating for traffic congestion alleviation along Law College Road. Despite initial plans to tender the project last year, opposition led to a postponement. The revised plan outlines a 2.1 km long and 30 m wide road.
By conducting a thorough on-site assessment, the CEC aims to address the various concerns and interests surrounding the contentious BBPP Road proposal, ultimately striving for an informed decision that balances environmental preservation with infrastructural development.
