Pune, 10th June 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has withdrawn its public notice related to tree cutting on Ganeshkhind Road, providing relief to environmentalists and Punekars. The move comes amid growing concerns over the impact of the proposed road development works on the area's green cover.
The decision was discussed during an online meeting held on Tuesday in the presence of Maharashtra Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Dr. Neelam Gorhe, PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram, Additional Commissioner Omprakash Divte, Metro Chief Engineer Yogesh Kulkarni, and environmental experts. The meeting focused on balancing infrastructure development with environmental protection.
During the discussion, Gorhe directed the civic administration to start an official helpline by Friday for citizens to report incidents of illegal tree felling. PMC has accepted the suggestion and will soon make the facility available to the public.
PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram clarified that no fresh action regarding tree cutting will be initiated until the final design of the Ganeshkhind Road project is approved. Once the design is finalized, a new process will be undertaken in accordance with the required procedures.
Gorhe also stressed the importance of public participation in decision-making. She said that instead of limiting discussions to internal committees, authorities should openly consider citizens’ suggestions and objections before taking major decisions affecting the environment.
The withdrawal of the notice and the assurance of a fresh, transparent process have been welcomed by environmental groups and residents. The development is being viewed as a positive step towards achieving a balance between urban development and sustainable environmental conservation.
