Bombay High Court Approves Balbharti-Paud Phata Road Project Despite Environmental Concerns
The court dismissed a petition challenging the road's feasibility, allowing the Pune Municipal Corporation to proceed with construction after securing necessary environmental clearances.
- The Bombay High Court ruled in favor of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), dismissing a petition filed by Nagrik Chetna Manch opposing the Balbharti-Paud Phata Road project.
- The court emphasized that the road's feasibility falls under the jurisdiction of planning authorities and directed the PMC to obtain required environmental and forest clearances before construction begins.
- The project, part of the 2007 Development Plan, has faced long-standing opposition from environmentalists and local residents, who argue it threatens Vetal Tekdi, a key green zone in Pune.
- Advocates for the road claim it will reduce traffic congestion and vehicle pollution on Law College Road, while critics question whether environmental impact assessments have been sufficiently transparent.
- The Vetal Tekdi Bachav Kruti Samiti and other activists vow to continue their fight to protect the area's greenery, citing the broader public interest in preserving the city's natural environment.
Free Press Journal 
Hindustan Times 
