Pune BJP In Dispute: Medha Kulkarni Opposes, Murlidhar Mohol Supports Vetal Hill Road
Pune, 17th May 2024: Following the Lok Sabha polls, the proposed Balbharti to Paud Phata road, cutting through Vetal hill, has reignited discussions. An internal dispute between Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) Rajya Sabha MP, Medha Kulkarni, and former mayor and BJP’s Pune Lok Sabha candidate, Murlidhar Mohol, has emerged regarding this road.
MP Kulkarni opposes the road, emphasizing the need for decision-making based on thorough discussions and consideration of citizens’ concerns. In contrast, Mohol stresses the importance of balancing development and environmental considerations before making a decision.
The Development Plan (DP) proposes a direct road from Paud Road to Balbharti on Senapati Bapat Road to alleviate traffic congestion on Karve Road and Law College Road. Despite the completion of land acquisition and other procedural requirements by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), opposition from environmentalists and residents persists.
Before the Lok Sabha elections, Mohol assured a balanced decision considering both development and environmental factors. However, post-election, the road opposition resurfaced, with MP Kulkarni taking a firm stand against it.
Prominent BJP leaders, including Kothrud MLA Chandrakant Patil and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, advocate for the road’s construction. Nevertheless, MP Kulkarni continues to champion citizens’ concerns, urging for inclusive discussions.
The proposed Balbharti-Paud Phata Road, estimated at Rs 253 crore, aims to address traffic congestion on Law College Road. However, concerns over its environmental impact, including the threat to biodiversity due to proposed tunnels, have fueled opposition among citizens.
Recent political shifts in Pune have seen opposition to the road from parties like Shiv Sena and NCP. MP Prof. Dr Medha Kulkarni advocates for dialogue and citizen engagement to resolve the issue constructively.
