Pune: PMC Pushes Ahead with Controversial Hanuman Tekdi Water Tank Project Despite Opposition

Pune, 9th December 2023: Despite concerns raised by citizens regarding the construction of three water tanks on Hanuman Tekdi, citing potential harm to the natural water recharge system and the existence of a tank near Law College Road, the PMC is proceeding with the project.

Environmental activists are expressing dismay as the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) water supply department has initiated land marking for the water tanks, raising concerns about the environmental impact of flattening the hill.

A senior PMC official asserts that they have obtained all necessary authorizations and emphasizes that the water from these tanks will benefit approximately five lakh people.

Sushma Date, a member of the Save Vetal Tekdi Foundation and a resident near Hanuman Tekdi, expresses concerns, stating, “We are not opposing the construction of water tanks, but do our dams have enough water for the proposed three tanks on Hanuman Tekdi? If not, why impact the Tekdi? The construction will occupy approximately 1 hectare, reducing open space for residents to walk. Tekdis in Pune have natural aquifer recharge potential, and excavating such a large space will impact natural aquifers and groundwater, leading to the drying up of borewells. An alternative solution must be explored without damaging the tekdis.”

The resident claims that in addition to affecting natural streams, the project would destroy the eco-sensitive zone and ancient aquifer systems. The construction will disrupt natural water recharge systems, and the PMC’s development plan designating tekdis as open spaces will be compromised.

According to a senior PMC, the Tree Authority has granted permission to cut down trees, though previous petitions led to a temporary halt in work. All necessary permissions, including those from the Ministry of Environment, have been obtained after restarting the project. The three tanks are expected to have capacities of 17 million liters, 3.5 million liters, and 3 million liters, catering to low-lying areas due to their elevated location. The PMC plans to reapply for permission from the Tree Authority to remove trees. The project is anticipated to be completed within the next eighteen months, addressing water supply issues for nearby residents.