Pune: Pimpri-Chinchwad Citizens Stage Symbolic Hunger Strike Against Riverfront Development Project, Demand River Clean-Up
Pimpri-Chinchwad, 24th April 2025: Environmental groups and local residents in Pimpri-Chinchwad staged a one-day symbolic hunger strike on April 24, intensifying their opposition to the ongoing riverfront development (RFD) project. Protesters gathered at the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) gate, voicing concerns that the RFD initiative prioritises construction and beautification over essential river clean-up and ecosystem preservation. Demonstrators demanded an immediate halt to the project and called for urgent action to treat sewage and restore the health of the Mula, Pavana, and Indrayani rivers.
Activists criticised the lack of political support, noting that no elected representatives visited the protest site despite widespread citizen participation. Slogans such as “No jogging tracks on riverbanks” and “Rivers are for the environment, not for construction” echoed throughout the day, reflecting frustration over continued deforestation and pollution under the guise of river improvement.
The protest follows two months of sustained agitation, including human chains and sit-ins, with environmentalists repeatedly urging authorities to prioritise river cleaning over infrastructure projects. Earlier meetings with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and PCMC officials failed to satisfy activists, who allege the administration is pushing ahead with the project without addressing core environmental concerns.
Environmental organisations have pledged to continue their campaign until authorities commit to a sustainable and citizen-centric solution for river management in Pimpri-Chinchwad.
