Revive Autadewadi Lake, Stop Illegal Dumping: Citizens Intensify Campaign for Restoration in Undri-Pisoli Belt

Pune, 3rd June 2026: After intensifying efforts to protect Wadachiwadi Lake, residents and environmental activists from Mohammadwadi, Undri and Pisoli have now launched a large-scale campaign demanding immediate restoration and protection of Autadewadi Lake, a nearly 10-acre waterbody that citizens say is facing rapid destruction due to illegal dumping, encroachments and administrative neglect.

Citizens alleged that the lake, once considered an important ecological asset and natural water source for nearby villages, is gradually turning into a dumping yard for garbage, construction debris and waste materials despite repeated complaints to authorities over the years.

The issue has now gained momentum with local residents, environmental groups and public representatives collectively demanding urgent intervention from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), the Maharashtra Environment Department and the Chief Minister’s Office.

A memorandum signed by over 220 residents and concerned citizens has already been submitted to PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, seeking immediate survey, demarcation, cleaning and scientific restoration of the lake. The memorandum highlighted the deteriorating condition of the waterbody and urged authorities to undertake long-term conservation measures.

According to citizens, years of unchecked dumping have severely damaged the lake’s ecosystem and reduced its water-holding capacity, posing a serious threat to groundwater recharge and biodiversity in the rapidly urbanising Undri-Pisoli region.

Residents also alleged that anti-social elements are attempting to illegally encroach upon portions of the lake land. Citizens have demanded fencing, desilting, removal of debris and strict monitoring to prevent further destruction of the waterbody.

Speaking about the issue, Pisoli resident Ramesh Shinde said the lake was once an important natural resource for surrounding villages.

“The lake was once a major water source for nearby villages and supported rich biodiversity. Today, it is turning into a dumping yard, with construction debris being dumped regularly. If authorities fail to act immediately, the lake may disappear completely within a few years,” Shinde said.

Environmental volunteer Vaishali Jagtap from Undri warned that destruction of natural waterbodies could create severe ecological consequences in the future.

“Urbanisation is increasing rapidly in Undri and Pisoli. Natural waterbodies like Autadewadi Lake are crucial for groundwater recharge and maintaining ecological balance. If such lakes vanish, the region could face severe water scarcity and flooding challenges in the future,” she said.

Local resident Nitin Hole alleged that repeated complaints regarding dumping and encroachments have not resulted in sufficient action.

“We have repeatedly informed authorities about dumping and encroachments, but action has been slow. The lake urgently requires fencing, desilting and continuous monitoring,” Hole said.

Citizens also pointed out that aquatic life still survives in some sections of the lake, indicating that restoration remains possible if scientific conservation efforts are initiated immediately.

“Fishing activity can still be seen in parts of the lake, which indicates that the waterbody remains capable of revival if scientific restoration measures are undertaken immediately,” said social activist Vikas Patil.

Ward No. 41 Corporator Nivrutti Anna Bandal strongly supported the citizens’ movement and said the lake must be protected before irreversible environmental damage takes place.

“Autadewadi Lake is one of the most important natural assets of our area and its protection is essential for maintaining ecological balance, groundwater recharge, biodiversity and the overall environmental health of the region. Over the years, residents have repeatedly expressed concern about the deteriorating condition of the lake, and I fully stand with their demand for its conservation and rejuvenation,” Bandal said.

He further stated that he has already written to the Chief Minister’s Office and PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram seeking urgent intervention for the restoration and long-term preservation of the lake.

“The lake should not be viewed merely as a water body but as a priceless environmental resource that belongs to future generations. Rapid urbanisation and unchecked development cannot come at the cost of destroying our natural heritage,” Bandal added.

The corporator also demanded scientific restoration measures, prevention of encroachments, pollution control and preparation of a comprehensive conservation plan for the lake ecosystem.

“As the elected representative of Ward No. 41, I am committed to pursuing this issue at every level and ensuring that all stakeholders work together to safeguard the lake. The people of Autadewadi and surrounding areas deserve a clean, healthy and sustainable environment. Saving Autadewadi Lake is not just an environmental necessity — it is our collective responsibility and a commitment to future generations,” Bandal said.

Responding to the growing concerns, PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram said the civic administration has taken serious note of the complaints and representations submitted by residents and environmental groups.

“We have received complaints regarding Autadewadi Lake, and the matter will be examined by the concerned departments. Necessary action to remove debris, prevent further dumping and address encroachments will be initiated in accordance with the rules. The PMC is also studying long-term conservation and rejuvenation measures for lakes in the southern parts of the city,” Ram said.

The citizens’ memorandum submitted to PMC has specifically demanded a comprehensive survey of the lake area, clear demarcation of boundaries, fencing to prevent encroachments, scientific cleaning and desilting, and preparation of a sustainable conservation plan involving environmental experts and active citizen participation.

Residents believe that protecting and restoring the lake will not only help preserve biodiversity and ecological balance but will also improve groundwater levels, reduce urban heat and provide green space for the growing population in the Undri-Pisoli-Mohammadwadi region.

With rapid urbanisation transforming the southern outskirts of Pune, environmental activists have warned that losing natural lakes like Autadewadi could lead to severe environmental consequences in the coming years unless immediate restoration measures are implemented.