Pune: Privatization Of Parks In Baner And Balewadi Areas Raises Concerns Among Citizens
Pune, 7th June 2023: The city of Pune, renowned for its well-maintained parks overseen by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), is undergoing a significant transformation as part of the Smart City project. However, the decision to privatize parks in the Baner and Balewadi areas has stirred unease and debate among citizens.
This move, carried out under the pretext of the ‘Smart City’ initiative, has raised questions about the consequences of such a decision.
Vivek Velankar, President of Sajag Naagrik Manch, expressed his dissatisfaction with the privatization process. With over 200 parks in Pune, the decision to impose entry fees for the parks in Baner and Balewadi appears unnecessary. These parks have already been funded by taxpayers, leading citizens to question why they should be subjected to additional charges.
Velankar emphasized that the Smart City initiative should prioritize meeting people’s needs and eliminating inconveniences, rather than focusing on profit-oriented endeavors. He called for the abandonment of this plan.
Ironically, these parks cater to various demographics, including senior citizens, disabled individuals, and environment-themed parks. Although senior citizens and disabled individuals continue to receive discounts, the general public will now be required to pay for visiting these parks that are under the management of private contractors.
Amol Balwadkar, former Corporator of the Baner Balewadi Pashan Ward, has taken a stand against the privatization of parks.
Balwadkar has taken the initiative to send a circular requesting the intervention of Chandrakant Patil, Pune’s Guardian Minister, in order to stop the ongoing process. Balwadkar reassured the citizens that they need not be concerned about any extra fees for visiting parks.
As the controversy unfolds, residents eagerly await further developments and hope that their concerns regarding the privatization of Pune’s parks will be acknowledged and addressed by the authorities. The outcome of these deliberations will determine the fate of these beloved public spaces and the accessibility of recreational areas for the citizens of Pune.
Here are the details of the six parks in Baner and Balewadi that are slated to be handed over to private contractors:
Park for Senior Citizens in Baner, S No 38/1
Fitness and Wellness Park in Baner, S No 26/3
Environment Park in Balewadi, S No 36/4
Reneu Park in Baner, S No 135
Energize Park in Baner, S No 140
Park for Differently Abled in Balewadi, S No 3/4 and S No 3/6
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