Pune: PMC’s Garden Department Negligence Sparks Citizen Outrage in NIBM Annexe – Mohammadwadi

Kondhwa, 26th March 2025: A decade of alleged negligence by the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) Garden Department in the NIBM Annexe – Mohammadwadi area has led to growing frustration among residents. Citizen activist Jaymala Dhankikar has written to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, highlighting a series of environmental violations and demanding immediate action against those responsible.

In her letter, Dhankikar accused the Garden Department of failing to prevent illegal tree felling, neglecting the maintenance of roadside greenery, and turning a blind eye to concerns raised by locals. “Despite repeated complaints, there has been no accountability. Trees are being axed in broad daylight, and yet no FIRs are being registered. It raises serious questions about whether the department is colluding with private contractors,” she stated.

Key Allegations Against the Garden Department
Failure to Act on Illegal Tree Felling: Dhankikar cited multiple incidents where fully grown trees were cut down, including one near Sufis Hotel, close to Ganga Kingston, and another in Undri. “The department’s inaction is not just negligence—it’s a violation of the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975. Why are FIRs not being registered against the culprits?” she questioned.

Neglect of Roadside Trees: Residents have also raised concerns about the drying up of roadside trees due to lack of watering. “The PMC plants trees but fails to take care of them. Without water, they wither and die, defeating the entire purpose of increasing green cover,” Dhankikar said.

Lack of Protective Measures: She further pointed out that the absence of iron rings around trees leaves them vulnerable to damage from vehicles and human activity. “Other parts of the city have these protections, but why is the NIBM Annexe area ignored?” she asked.

Alleged Collusion with Private Contractors: One of the most serious allegations in Dhankikar’s letter is the suspected collusion between the Garden Department and private contractors. “We have noticed that whenever tree-related complaints are made, private contractors accompany the officials. This raises serious concerns about corruption,” she alleged.

Demands for Immediate Action
Dhankikar has urged the Chief Minister to implement urgent reforms, including:
Filing FIRs for all illegal tree felling incidents
Disciplinary action against negligent officials
A citizen oversight committee to monitor PMC’s Garden Department
Regular independent audits of department finances and operations
Strict enforcement of tree protection laws

“The PMC’s Garden Department has failed the people and the environment for far too long. We need immediate action to restore public trust and protect our green spaces,” Dhankikar emphasized.

Her letter has also been sent to the Pune Municipal Commissioner, the Mayor, local ward offices, environmental organizations, and law enforcement agencies, calling for transparency and accountability. Whether authorities will act on these demands remains to be seen.