The Indian Express 11.07.2013
In full flow: PMC sets Mutha riverside beautification plan rolling
eyesore because of filth. Waking up to the grim reality, the Pune
Municipal Corporation had undertaken the River Improvement Project under
JNNURM four years back. Going a step forward, PMC has now decided to
take up the work of riverside beautification between Baba Bhide bridge
and Shivram Mhatre Road, popularly known as Poona Hospital bridge.The
plan includes setting up of two playgrounds, a jogging track, landscape
mound, lawn and a covered sit out.
“The river improvement work has been undertaken under JNNURM and
the work is nearing completion. Now, there is a plan for beautification
of the river front. A plan has been prepared for the purpose which would
be implemented in phases,” said Srinavas Bonala, additional city
engineer.
The first phase will reportedly be undertaken using funds made
available by local MLA Girish Bapat. As per the plan, the stretch from
Baba Bhide bridge to Poona hospital bridge would be developed in a
manner that there will a jogging track, two play areas for children (Bal
Bhavan), a removable gazebo or covered sitout and a lawn.
There will be two landscape mounds that would add to the beauty
of the area and plantation of decorative flowery trees would be done on
the border. There will also be provision of parking for those visiting
the place that is being developed for attracting tourists.
The civic administration also plans to put sculptures at the
place while there will be removable gazebo so that it can be removed
during floodlike situations. The play area will have playing equipment
installed in garden for the children.
PMC has recently got a go ahead from the court for improving the
river front. The river development and beautification plan was opposed
by civic activists who had gone to court. The work would be carried out
at an estimated cost of Rs 47 lakh in nine months time after issuing the
work order, said civic officer. “PMC is starting beautification of
river front near Bhide bridge and would slowly extend it on the
riverfront within civic jurisdiction. There will be no provision for
commercial activities like setting up stalls or joints,” he said, adding
this will also help in keeping a check on illegal use or encroachment
of river front.
Presently, the said area is used as parking space for four-wheelers, cow
shades, makeshift commercial stalls. It is also used by mandals for
practising of musical bands.