Pune: Kothrud Residents Plan Peaceful Rally On April 22 Over Increasing Construction, Cite Traffic and Ecological Damage
Pune: Kothrud Residents Plan Peaceful Rally On April 22 Over Increasing Construction, Cite Traffic and Ecological Damage
Residents of the Kothrud area are set to stage a peaceful protest against the rapid and unregulated expansion of MIT-WPU, which they say is harming the environment and disrupting their daily lives. The protest will take place on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, 2025, starting at 8:00 AM from Sigma One Society’s main gate and culminating at the university’s main entrance near the “Globe” structure.
MIT-WPU has already constructed a massive building near Abhishilpa and Perinshree societies. Now, fresh excavation has begun behind Sigma One Society for yet another large structure. Additionally, reports suggest that the plot currently housing the design school is being redeveloped into a new academic building.l, said a release issued by the residents.
This rampant construction is increasing student numbers, putting enormous pressure on the already narrow internal roads. Frequent traffic jams, vehicle pollution, and environmental degradation have become daily struggles for locals. Trees have been uprooted, bird habitats disturbed, and water retention areas destroyed. The once-frequent sight of peacocks in the area is now rare, and residents face growing water shortages and disturbances due to irresponsible student behavior.
The peaceful march will feature placards, posters, and slogans but will avoid blocking traffic or engaging in conflict. Protesters are urged to wear white and bring water, sun caps, and sunglasses. Black ribbons will be distributed as a symbol of protest.
Residents are urged to join the cause and raise their voices to save their neighborhood.
The protest has been organized by members of the CF@11 group, who have taken the lead in mobilizing residents and planning the peaceful march. The core team includes Sandeep Bhadkamkar, Adv. Ramchandra Nirmal, Mandar Kelkar, Makarand Bondre, Bhushan Oak, Dr. Anil Chitakke, Ganesh Khedkar, and Mahesh Paradkar. On behalf of the group, Sandeep Bhadkamkar and Adv. Ramchandra Nirmal will address the invited media during the protest. Additionally, a handout outlining the group’s key demands and a formal declaration will be distributed to the participants.
Ganesh Pokale, Registrar, MIT WPU on the issue said, “MIT World Peace University strongly denies the recent complaints made by a neighbouring society about our construction activities. The claims about noise, dust, environmental damage, and legal violations are completely untrue and misleading. MIT-WPU has always followed the rules and taken all necessary permissions from government authorities before starting any construction work. These include all required clearances for building an educational infrastructure. We would also like to clarify that no work is happening on forest land, hilltops, or any protected area. We have not caused any harm to the environment, local wildlife, or the peace of the neighbourhood. Our construction is fully legal and done in a responsible and environment-friendly way. We are proud of our 40+ years of contribution to education and are committed to the well-being of our students, staff, and the community around us. We reject all false and baseless allegations. MIT-WPU will continue to work for education and innovation while respecting the environment and our neighbours.”
