Pune: PMC’s 42nd Annual Fruits, Flowers, and Vegetables Exhibition Blooms in Shivajinagar

Devashish and Varad Bhatkhande

Shivajinagar, 10th February 2024: The 42nd Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Annual Fruits, Flowers, and Vegetables Competition and Exhibition is presently underway at Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Garden, located on Jangli Maharaj (JM) Road, Shivajinagar, Pune, on February 10 and 11, coinciding with the anniversary of the PMC.

The exhibition’s inauguration took place at 11 am on February 10, with Pune Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar presiding over the opening ceremony, followed by public access. Notably, attendees utilising the PMC Care app are privileged with expedited entry. PMC organizes such exhibitions annually to foster public awareness regarding the importance of trees and plants in human life and to facilitate private and public organizations to host similar events.

The exhibition comprises 12 sections with 216 subdivisions, showcasing a diverse array of fruit and vegetable competitions and displays, including decorative arrangements, floral collections, and vegetable presentations. Notable highlights encompass a wide variety of flower species, intricate garden replicas, and a prize distribution ceremony scheduled for winners on February 11 at 5 pm. Participation extends to various institutions such as Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) and the Forest Department. Visitors can also indulge in bonsai displays, paper crafts, and initiatives promoting cycling. Additionally, stalls selling floral, fruit, and gardening items are operational from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm on both days.

PMC Assistant Garden Superintendent Snehal Harpale told Punekar News, “The public is responding positively to this exhibition. They are thoroughly enjoying themselves and capturing memorable moments through photography. To enhance their experience, we have established dedicated selfie points with picturesque backgrounds. Additionally, we have arranged parking facilities near the river bed to prevent congestion on the usually busy JM road. We anticipate more than 100,000 people attending the event over these two days.”

To manage the influx of over 100,000 attendees, PMC has collaborated with various organizations. Enthusiastic volunteers from Zeal College of Engineering and Research participated in the event. One of the team members, Suraj Pawar, expressed, “We’ve gained valuable insights and experiences through this opportunity. As self-driven volunteers, we’re passionate about contributing to such initiatives. Our college friend circle actively engages in various socially beneficial activities, including numerous cleanliness drives and street plays on Kalakar Katta on JM Road. We find fulfilment in assisting with events like these.”

This PMC’s Exhibition offers hardworking residents a delightful weekend option. With Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Garden located at the heart of Pune and JM Road being a bustling hub, attending this exhibition presents an appealing opportunity for people to unwind and enjoy their weekend.