Pune: In a significant move to support competitive exam aspirants, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to allocate dedicated study spaces at nominal rates. Pune Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale announced that the initiative would cater to 700 to 1,000 students, providing them with secure and peaceful study environments.

Thousands of aspirants from across Maharashtra come to Pune every year to prepare for competitive exams. Despite the city's reputation as a hub for coaching classes, students often struggle to find adequate study spaces. Many are compelled to depend on private study centers, which can be financially burdensome.

Over the years, areas like Sadashiv Peth, Navi Peth, Narayan Peth, Shivajinagar, and Shastri Road have become hotspots for coaching classes. After attending these classes, students typically spend their day in various private study spaces. However, safety concerns have been raised about several of these centers, many of which lack proper safety measures.

The need for secure study environments became urgent following a recent fire incident at a private study center, bringing safety issues to the forefront. Responding to this, PMC has decided to repurpose spaces in its municipal schools for study centers. This initiative aims to ensure that students can study in a safe, quiet, and affordable environment.

Commissioner Dr. Bhosale confirmed that certain schools have already been identified for this purpose and that plans are underway to implement the initiative soon.