Pune: Residents Urge Authorities to Preserve Ganga Kingston Amenity Plot as Urban Forest
Kondhwa, 4th April 2025: In a bid to protect one of the last remaining green spaces in Mohammadwadi, social activist Jaymala Dhankikar has urged the Maharashtra Tree Authority and Pune Tree Authority to declare the Ganga Kingston amenity plot as an Urban Forest cum Citizens Garden. The appeal highlights concerns over rapid urbanization and the need for sustainable development in Pune.
The 31 R (2,594 sq. km) plot, located near Survey No. 39, is home to over 200 protected trees, including several native Indian species. In her letter dated February 9, 2025, Dhankikar emphasized the ecological significance of the land, urging authorities to take immediate steps to preserve it.
“This land is a rare green oasis in Pune’s concrete jungle. If we don’t act now, we risk losing it to commercial development,” Dhankikar stated. “We request the authorities to declare it as a forest, ensuring long-term protection under environmental laws.”
The activist has proposed that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) collaborate with local residents to develop the plot into a Public Park cum Citizens Garden. She believes this would not only safeguard biodiversity but also provide a much-needed recreational space for the community.
“Transforming this land into an urban forest will enhance air quality, conserve biodiversity, and promote community well-being,” Dhankikar added. “We are counting on the authorities to act before it’s too late.”
Residents of Mohammadwadi have echoed similar concerns, stressing that such green spaces are vital for sustainable urban planning. Many have called on civic officials to prevent the commercialization of public amenity spaces meant for community welfare.
The Maharashtra Tree Authority and Pune Tree Authority have yet to respond to the petition, but environmentalists and citizens remain hopeful that their request will be considered on priority.
