Citizens Outraged as Defence Land in Pune Cantonment Turns into Garbage Dump, Buffalo Shelter
Camp, 5th July 2025: In the heart of Pune Cantonment, a two-acre defence land parcel—strategically located opposite the prestigious Bishop’s School Camp and close to St. Mary’s School—has become a dumping ground and buffalo shelter, sparking anger among residents, parents, and activists. What was once part of the Old Grant Bungalow (OGB) heritage zone is now strewn with garbage, construction debris, and signs of neglect, raising serious concerns about public health, environmental safety, and misuse of prime defence land.
Despite being flanked by key military offices, including the Military Police Headquarters, the plot has no boundary wall and remains easily accessible. A recent visit revealed heaps of broken tiles, thermocol, discarded furniture, and even signal equipment lying in the open.
Residents report that motorists routinely stop to relieve themselves inside the premises, while the foul stench from dumped waste and buffalo dung chokes the surrounding air.
Social activist Rajabhau Chavan, who has repeatedly flagged the issue, said, “This land is sandwiched between top educational institutions and defence offices. It’s disgraceful that it’s been allowed to rot. Drunkards use it as a hideout, scrap dealers dump material here, and buffaloes roam freely. If the Cantonment Board has banned garbage bins in civilian areas, why is this plot exempt? A boundary wall is the need of the hour.”
The land is adjacent to Rewachand Bhojwani Academy and Mohini Mahal bungalow and lies along a route frequently used by schoolchildren and residents. The situation has left many parents worried about their children’s safety.
A parent whose child studies at Bishop’s School, said, “Every morning my child has to walk past this mess. It’s more than just an eyesore—it’s a health hazard. There’s a risk of infections, accidents, and even criminal activity. Why should our kids suffer because authorities aren’t acting in time?”
When approached for comment, Pune Cantonment Board CEO Subrat Pal acknowledged the problem but cited a legal deadlock. “The property is under litigation due to a dispute between the Army and the Holder of Right (HOR). However, considering the volume of complaints, we are exploring interim steps such as fencing to prevent misuse,” he said.
Local campaigners insist that the legal dispute cannot be used as an excuse for inaction. They are urging the authorities, including the Defence Estates Office and Army representatives, to collaborate and find temporary solutions such as barricading, surveillance, and regular cleaning until the ownership matter is resolved.
“This is not just about one plot—it reflects how heritage and defence lands are being ignored,” said activist Chavan. “What message are we sending to future generations if we allow national property to decay in full public view?”
Residents have also demanded that the Pune Cantonment Board enforce stricter monitoring of other such neglected defence plots in the city, especially those near schools and residential areas.
As the monsoon intensifies, the fear of waterlogging, vector-borne diseases, and worsening hygiene has only added urgency to citizen demands. Whether the authorities will act before the situation escalates further remains to be seen.
