Pune: Citizens’ Initiative for ‘Sindoor Smriti Vatika’ Takes Shape in Undri; Groundwork Begins
Undri, 5th October 2026: A citizen-led initiative to develop a dedicated memorial garden in Undri in honour of soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation has moved forward, with preliminary groundwork beginning at the proposed site on 29th September.
Tentatively named ‘Sindoor Smriti Vatika’, the proposed garden was initiated by members of the Mohammadwadi-Undri Residents Welfare Development Foundation in 2025. The project aims to create a space that commemorates the courage and sacrifice of India’s armed forces while providing residents with a green recreational area.
Residents associated with the initiative said the demand for the garden was raised well before the election process and was pursued consistently through citizen representations and follow-ups with civic authorities.
PMC Commissioner Visits Proposed Site
Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram visited the proposed garden site in September and reviewed the initiative. Residents said the Commissioner has been personally following up on the project and its progress.
Preliminary work began on 29th September, with land levelling currently underway at the site. Further development, including landscaping and other basic infrastructure, is expected to be undertaken in phases.
Citizens’ Participation Highlighted
Members of the residents’ foundation said the project was the result of continuous efforts by local residents who raised the demand and remained involved throughout the process.
Sunil Koloti, Director and resident of Nyati Windchimes, said, “Sindoor Smriti Vatika is more than just a garden; it is a space to remember and honour the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The fact that groundwork has now begun shows what sustained citizen participation and constructive engagement with the civic administration can achieve.”
Suniel Aiyer said, “This initiative has been driven by the collective efforts of residents who have consistently raised the need for better public spaces in Undri. We hope the garden develops into a meaningful memorial as well as a welcoming green space for families and senior citizens.”
Sandeep Kolhatkar said, “The commencement of work is an encouraging development for the entire Undri community. We are grateful to everyone who supported the proposal and followed up with the authorities. We now hope the project is completed in a planned manner so that the community can benefit from it for years to come.”
The proposed Sindoor Smriti Vatika is expected to serve a dual purpose honouring the sacrifice of fallen soldiers while creating an accessible green space for residents of Undri and surrounding areas.
Residents have welcomed the commencement of groundwork, describing it as an important milestone for the community and an example of how sustained citizen participation can help bring long-pending civic initiatives to fruition.
