Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has completed the acquisition of a five-guntha plot adjoining the Palkhi Vitthoba Temple in Bhavani Peth within just three months, an unusually swift process for a civic land acquisition project. The land is being cleared to provide additional space for the annual halt of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Palkhi procession.
The temple has traditionally hosted the Palkhi during its stay in Pune. However, growing crowds over the past few years have made the available space inadequate, prompting concerns about managing devotees and related activities. Discussions had even begun about shifting the halt to another location in the city.
The possibility of relocating the historic halt drew strong reactions from local residents and public representatives, who urged the state government to preserve the long-standing tradition. Efforts were subsequently made to improve facilities and create more space around the temple premises.
Along with removing encroachments and unauthorized structures in the area, PMC initiated the process to acquire the adjoining plot. Civic officials held negotiations with the landowners and finalized a compensation package through mutual agreement.
The civic body paid ₹4.3 crore for the land, which was officially taken over last week. Demolition of the existing building on the site has already begun, and work is underway to prepare the area before Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Palkhi arrives in Pune on July 8.
PMC officials said the additional open space will help manage the large number of devotees and ensure that the traditional Bhavani Peth halt continues smoothly in the years ahead.