Pune, 3rd July 2025: The treated water from the sewage treatment plant (STP) at Vitthalwadi will soon be used to water the trees on Taljai Hill. A meeting between officials of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Forest Department was recently held, where the proposal received a positive response.
The green hillocks of Pune are considered the lungs of the city. Over the years, several environmentalists have actively worked for their protection, supported by efforts from PMC and the Forest Department. Taljai is one of the major hills in Pune, frequented by thousands of citizens every morning and evening for walks and exercise. Spread over approximately 257 hectares, the hill is home to various species of birds and animals.
To help conserve this rich biodiversity, PMC proposed using treated wastewater from the Vitthalwadi STP instead of drinking water, which is currently being used for Taljai. A formal letter had been sent to the Forest Department regarding the same. This move aims to save potable water while ensuring the ecosystem on the hill remains nourished.
During summers, the need for water increases significantly for the trees, birds, and animals in areas like Taljai and the nearby Pachgaon-Parvati forest patch. PMC's electrical department had requested a detailed plan from the Forest Department last year regarding daily water requirements and distribution points.
Although the initial letter in October received no reply, a preliminary meeting was finally held on Wednesday between Forest Department officials and PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram.
Manisha Shekatkar, head of PMC’s electrical department, said the Forest Department has now responded positively to the proposal to use treated water for Taljai’s forest area. Once the proposal is approved, PMC will set up the infrastructure needed to deliver the water to the hill.
This initiative is expected to help maintain greenery on the hill even during the summer, ensure the survival of saplings planted under afforestation drives, prevent soil erosion, conserve drinking water, and significantly reduce the cost of supplying water through tankers.