Pune: Blow to Environmentalists as Court Dismisses Petition Against Balbharti-Paud Phata Road Project

Pune, 22nd February 2025: In a significant setback for environmental activists, the Bombay High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the proposed Balbharti-Paud Phata road project, paving the way for its construction. The project, which has faced strong opposition from environmental groups, will now proceed as planned by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

The proposed road, aimed at easing traffic congestion in Kothrud and surrounding areas, will pass through Vetal Hill, a sensitive ecological zone. Environmentalists had argued that the project would lead to large-scale deforestation, depletion of water springs, and severe damage to the biodiversity of Pune’s hills. The Nagari Chetna Manch had filed a petition in the High Court, alleging that the municipal corporation was favoring builders at the cost of the environment. However, with the dismissal of the petition, PMC has received the green light to move forward with the project.

Key Features of the Balbharti-Paud Phata Road Project:
The 1.8-kilometer-long road will serve as an alternate route connecting Kothrud to Senapati Bapat Road, bypassing traffic-heavy areas like Karve Road, Paud Road, Law College Road, and Senapati Bapat Road.

The road will begin at Balbharti on Vetal Hill, pass behind Law College Road, and connect to Paud Phata near Kelewadi.

The project will feature a mix of ground-level and elevated sections, with 400 meters of the road designed as an elevated stretch.

The total width of the road will be 30 meters.
The revised project cost is ₹252.13 crore, with an additional ₹17 crore increase due to changes in alignment to bypass a quarry, private construction sites, and a slum near Paud Phata.

Environmental Concerns and Opposition

Even before the tender process began, environmentalists had strongly opposed the project. Protests, including citizen marches, were held against the construction, citing severe ecological damage. Opponents warned that the project could lead to:

Deforestation of a crucial green zone.
Drying up of natural water springs in the hill area.
Loss of biodiversity in the Vetal Hill region.
Despite public protests and legal action, the court ruled in favor of the PMC.
Municipal Corporation’s Stand

Legal advisor to the PMC, Nisha Chavan, stated:
“The Municipal Corporation presented its case in court, highlighting that the project was included in the Development Plan (DP) after considering public objections. Since the court found our position justified, permission has been granted for the construction. We will also file a caveat in the Supreme Court to safeguard against any further legal challenges.”

The tender process, initially set for September 2023, had been delayed due to growing public resistance. However, with the legal hurdle now cleared, the project is expected to resume soon.