We need a Healthy city instead of a ‘Smart city’
Pune, June 6, 2018: City’s environment experts highlighted the issues of water conservation, town planning and development and the correlation between climate change and environmental damage in Pune during a panel discussion organised by Pune International Center (PIC) on the occasion of ‘World Environment Day’.
“Punekars have always tried to support environmental conservation. But in addition to carrying out eco-friendly activities, it is in our own hands to stop things that are harmful to the environment around us. We need a healthy city instead of a Smart city,” said Yadwadkar, an architect and environmental activist who leads the struggle against encroachment on the Mula-Mutha riverbeds.
Professor Amitav Malik, Trustee, PIC convened as well as moderated this discussion. The young and versatile panel consisted of Dr. Neha Bhadbhade, PhD in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Saili Palande-Datar, an archaeologist, ecologist, organic farmer and conservationist, Mr. Sarang Yadwadkar, environmental activist and architect, and Ms. Ketaki Ghate, Founder, Oikos for Ecological Services. The discussion was attended by Dr. Vijay Kelkar, eminent economist and Vice-President of PIC, and other luminaries of Pune such as Mr. Ravi Pandit and Mr. Arun Firodia, Mr. Pradeep Bhargava.
Together, the panelists highlighted various crucial issues in and around Pune. Neha Bhadbhade brought groundwater into focus. “On most roads and in parking spaces, pavement blocks are installed because of which rain water cannot seep into the soil. In Pune, groundwater recharge can be done easily in many areas such as Bibwewadi, which is important for raising ground water levels in the city. These areas should be focused upon.” She also added that one must consciously keep a track of one’s water footprint and improve one’s water use efficiency accordingly.
“If we know the production process of each thing we use, we can make better and informed choices about what to consume. This is one of the best ways we can contribute at individual level for a sustainable environment,” articulated Ketaki Ghate. She also stressed on the fact that the change needs to come in thinking, and from within.
Saili Palande-Datar highlighted the importance of green zones, hilltop conservation, and planting native plants across the city. “As an organic farmer, I suggest we start growing food ourselves. It can be in our backyards, or if one lives in a flat, in terraces. Growing small amounts of food can have many benefits; it provides nutrition, appeals to our aesthetic sense, and also contributes to reviving local biodiversity, especially local insects and birds. These are great benefits, and if done collectively, can help the city in a big way.”
