Pune: Durga Hill in Pimpri-Chinchwad to be Redeveloped; Environmentalists Oppose Move

Nigdi, 2nd July 2025: The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has announced plans to redevelop the Indira Gandhi Garden located on Durga Devi Hill (Durga Tekdi). An architect has been appointed for the project by the Civil, Garden, and Sports Departments of PCMC.

Durga Hill, known for its greenery and natural environment, is home to a PCMC-maintained garden with a dense tree cover. The area is a popular morning destination for residents across Pimpri-Chinchwad, attracting men and women, young and old, for jogging, exercise, and walks. Every year, new trees are planted, and the hill is occasionally visited by peacocks and rabbits, a rare sight in urban areas.

PCMC floated requests for quotations from architects to redevelop the garden. Among the three applicants, IM Kedari Architects offered a rate 0.95% lower than the others. The firm will be paid in two phases: one installment before construction and another after its completion. PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh approved the proposal in the last Standing Committee meeting.

However, environmentalists and local citizens have openly opposed the redevelopment. They argue that the plan could lead to tree cutting, damage the area’s biodiversity, and result in unwanted concrete construction. Thousands of citizens have signed a petition against the project, which has been submitted to the PCMC chief. Despite the opposition, it appears that the redevelopment work will proceed.