Pune News: Residents demand civic action to halt constructions in BDP areas in Kothrud

The Jijai Nagar Rahivasi Sangh, a residents’ group in Kothrud, is urging the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to take action against ‘illegal constructions’ in bio-diversity park (BDP) areas near NDA hill.

The group has initiated a campaign named ‘Save BDP Hills – Jijai Nagar’, expressing concern over the relentless construction activities that have been encroaching on the hill for over a year.

“We have repeatedly approached civic officials to halt such constructions, but our pleas have fallen on deaf ears,” expressed residents.

Residents highlighted the adverse environmental impact and health hazards caused by these construction activities. They raised concerns about increased incidents of waterlogging, especially with the impending monsoon season.

“We demand a comprehensive solution to curb illegal constructions. Immediate action is required to safeguard the BDP areas,” stressed one resident.

Residents cited administrative negligence, which they believe is contributing to the degradation of hills near Mahatma Society in Jijai Nagar, New India School, Warje, and Bavdhan, among other areas. A senior official mentioned that the administration is planning a demolition drive with police protection within the next few weeks.

BDP areas hold immense potential for agricultural activities, including horticulture, forestry, and nursery development. Additionally, proposals for a historical museum and a biodiversity information and research center have been suggested for government or PMC-owned land, subject to the condition that the hill remains intact.

PMC has earmarked biodiversity hotspots across Pune to safeguard its diverse flora and fauna from rapid urbanization. These areas span approximately 978 hectares across seven hills in 12 villages, comprising both government and private land.

Key regions falling under the BDP ambit include Bavdhan, Baner, Sinhagad Road, Bibvewadi, and Mundhwa, where preservation efforts are crucial to maintaining Pune’s ecological balance.