Pune: Protest Erupts In Kothrud Over DP Road Project; Activists Allege Tree Cutting And Damage To Natural Water Stream
Pune: Protest Erupts In Kothrud Over DP Road Project; Activists Allege Tree Cutting And Damage To Natural Water Stream
Pune, May 9, 2026: A protest was staged in Pune’s Kothrud area against the proposed DP Road project, with Shiv Sena activist Rohit Marne and his supporters alleging large-scale environmental damage due to the cutting of hundreds of trees along a natural water stream near Karve Road.
As part of the agitation, Marane and his associates held a semi-nude protest at the site where trees are reportedly set to be removed for the road project. Protesters also planted saplings at the same location as a symbolic gesture against deforestation.
Addressing the media, Rohit Marne alleged that the DP Road project is being pushed forward by destroying a natural water channel and cutting hundreds of trees to financially benefit select builders.
“While Pune city is already witnessing rising temperatures and environmental degradation, this project is being carried out in the name of development to favour a few construction businessmen. Blocking the natural water flow and cutting trees for the DP Road will create serious drainage issues in Kothrud. Rainwater accumulation in the area was already witnessed during the recent unseasonal rains,” he said.
Marne further claimed that despite repeated protests and follow-ups with the Pune Municipal Corporation administration, no action has been taken. He stated that the activists would soon approach the court seeking a stay on the project, claiming that the work poses a threat to both the environment and public safety.
Several local political and social representatives were present during the protest, including Uday Bhelke, Balasaheb Vichare, Sagar Pore, Kiran Adagale, Ajay Gholap, Praveen Sharma, Raunak Vichare, and others.
